Carr, Mendocino fire claims top $845m

California’s Carr and Mendocino complex fires’ claims top $845 million and are now counted among the most destructive wildfires in the state's history, according to California’s Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones.

The Carr fire was ignited outside Redding, California on July 23, 2018 before later entering the western edge of the city, fuelled by temperatures topping 100°F (37.8°C), shifting winds, and extremely dry conditions in place and damaged or destroyed no fewer than 1,159 structures.

Twin wildfires in California, known as the Mendocino Complex Fire spread rapidly in August to burn 283,800 acres of land - an area almost the size of Los Angeles.

"Our wildfire history tells the story of how our fire season has changed over the years from a four-month season to a year-round threat," said Commissioner Jones. "Over the past two decades, the frequency and severity of wildfires has increased and caused significant property damage and the tragic loss of life in the wildland-urban interface areas of the state. Even more troubling is that areas once considered not to be high risk are now being scorched by wildfires."

Data collected by the department shows that the widespread destruction from the Carr and Mendocino Complex fires resulted in damaging or destroying more than 8,800 homes, 329 businesses, and more than 800 private autos, commercials vehicles, and other types of property. More than 10,000 claims have been filed, totalling $845 million in insured losses.

"The Carr and Mendocino Complex fires not only caused staggering losses to thousands of Californians, they devastated entire communities and tragically cost many people their lives, and were among the most destructive fires in our state's history," added Commissioner Jones. "We should remember that the vast majority of California's most destructive fires occurred after September 1st, and fire experts tell us that the worst fires for 2018 may still be ahead of us."

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