Camp Fire deadliest wildfire in California history: AIR Worldwide

The Camp and Woolsey fires in California have now burned through more than 230,000 acres, destroyed more than 9,000 structures and damaged more than 150 structures since the blaze ignited on Thursday, November 8, according to AIR Worldwide.

The Camp Fire has surpassed previous records to become both the deadliest and the most destructive single wildfire in California history. As of November 14, CAL FIRE reported that the Camp Fire had burned through 135,000 acres, destroyed more than 8,800 structures—7,600 single-family residences, 95 multi-family residences, 260 commercial structures, and 859 minor structures—and damaged more than 100 structures (115 residences and 48 commercial), AIR said in a detailed update on the situation.

Another 15,000 structures remain threatened and field inspections of damage are still under way. A total of 51 deaths have been reported, including 48 civilians and 3 firefighters, and searches for missing people are still under way. Evacuation orders are in effect for Paradise, Magalia, Concow, Butte Creek Canyon, and Butte Valley, and about half of the established evacuation centers are full; road closures remain extensive.

Numerous firefighting aircraft have continued flying fire suppression missions as conditions have allowed and ground crews are working to hold established containment lines. The Camp Fire is 35 percent contained and full containment was projected by CAL FIRE for November 30.

The Woolsey Fire has destroyed several high-value celebrity homes in Malibu, California, and the notable “Western Town” portion of legendary filming locale Paramount Ranch. As of November 14, CAL FIRE reported that the Woolsey Fire had burned through almost 98,000 acres, destroyed more than 483 structures, damaged 86 structures, and killed two civilians; searches for missing people are still under way.

Another 57,000 structures remain threatened and field inspections of damage are still under way, at only 20% complete. Evacuation orders are in effect in parts of both Ventura and Los Angeles counties, including Malibu and Calabasas—home to the famous Mulholland Drive. Multiple evacuation centres are open and road closures have been extended through both counties.

Moderate Santa Ana winds with gusts of up to 45 mph and low humidity contributed to a flare up in the Sherwood Lake area. Numerous firefighting aircraft have continued flying fire suppression missions as conditions have allowed and ground crews are working to inhibit further perimeter growth. The Woolsey Fire is 47% contained and full containment was projected by CAL FIRE for November 18.

As of November 14, the Hill Fire has destroyed two structures and was 94 percent contained.

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