Firefighters gain 40% containment of California’s fourth-largest wildfire on record

California’s largest wildfire of the year was 40% contained on Wednesday after burning over 670 square miles (1,735 square kilometers). The Park Fire, which started on July 24 due to suspected arson in a wilderness area near Chico, has quickly become the fourth-largest wildfire in the state’s history.

Cal Fire reported minimal fire activity overnight and noted that firefighters were focusing on mop-up and tactical patrol efforts to secure containment and prepare for repopulation of affected communities. A significant portion of the fire is within Lassen National Forest, where it remains contained within its current perimeter.

Recent weather conditions have been more favorable, with increased humidity aiding in fire suppression. Over 5,400 firefighters continue to battle the blaze.

The fire has predominantly affected Butte and Tehama counties, destroying 641 structures and damaging 52, according to Cal Fire. An arson investigation is underway involving a Chico man who was arrested after a burning car was found pushed into a gully.

While other large fires in California are making notable progress in containment, the Boise Fire in Six Rivers National Forest, which ignited on August 9, remains at zero containment and has burned over 11 square miles (28 square kilometers).