US: Carr Fire rapidly expanding in Shasta county (California) as of July 28 /update 2

Event

The so-called Carr Fire nearly doubled in size from the evening of Friday, July 27 (local time), to the morning of Saturday, July 28 (from 194 sq km [75 sq mi] to over 320 sq km [125 sq km]), and has left at least five people dead and 17 others missing as of Saturday. The blaze, burning in Shasta county (California), has forced some 38,000 people to evacuate affected and threatened areas, including parts of Redding, and remains only 5 percent contained. The Carr Fire has also destroyed some 500 structures and has prompted authorities to close dozens of roads.

The blaze is expected to spread over the coming days, aided by forecast hot and dry weather and an abundance of dry vegetation. According to officials, further evacuations are possible and there are emergency plans to evacuate the entire city of Redding if necessary. Up-to-date information can be found on the CalFire website.

Context

The fire ignited on July 23 after a vehicle malfunctioned near the Shasta-Trinity National Forest. Wildfires are frequent in California from May through November.

Advice

Individuals in affected areas are advised to exercise caution when traveling in areas near the wildfire, adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders), and monitor the situation. Children and those with respiratory illnesses are advised to limit outdoor activity.