Firefighters battling the Park Fire are expected to get some relief from a cooling trend, but gusty winds forecasted on Monday could challenge containment efforts. A Red Flag Warning has been issued for Northeast California and Western Nevada, effective from 12 PM to 8 PM Monday, due to the expected windy and dry conditions more details here.
Containment on the Park Fire continues to grow, last reported at 38%. Over the weekend, crews focused on holding the fire south and east of Turner Mountain using aircraft, direct line construction, and mop-up operations. Overnight, they continued direct attacks on active fire and smoldering areas along the perimeter, with night-capable aircraft available to support ground efforts.
The Park Fire has burned 113,600 acres on Lassen National Forest, with the total area affected now at 429,188 acres.
The fire’s origin has been linked to 42-year-old chico man, Ronnie Dean Stout II, who allegedly started the fire after his car got stuck in Upper Bidwell Park. witnesses reported seeing him push the burning vehicle off a cliff, leading to the spread of the fire. According to the Record Searchlight, Stout has yet to enter a plea following a second court appearance. His public defender requested more time before entering a plea, so another arraignment has been scheduled for August 22. Stout remains in jail without bail and could face 25 years to life in prison if convicted.
