The record for the largest wildfire in California history fell on Monday after just eight months as the Mendocino Complex Fire passed the Thomas Fire, from last December, to set the new mark for most acres burned.
California wildfires
The record for the largest wildfire in California history fell on Monday after just eight months as the Mendocino Complex Fire passed the Thomas Fire, from last December, to set the new mark for most acres burned.
As the state's wildfire seasons get longer and more devastating, firefighters are adjusting to a new and "frightening" normal.
Among the losses were the homes of firefighters working in the area, as well as the Redding police chief.
Many more are feared to be dead and buried beneath the mud. At least 24 people are missing, fire officials said.
As for those facing the flames of the current wildfires, there's gratitude -- for life, community and the efforts of the firefighters working to protect both.
Another new fire, just to the north of the Lilac Fire, had consumed 300 acres. That blaze, called the Liberty Fire, is 10% contained.
Fires in Southern California continue to ravage the region overnight, shutting down the Interstate 5 highway. Hundreds of firefighters have responded to three massive fires threatening homes, structures and livestock.
California's fire chief says at least 1,500 homes and commercial buildings have been destroyed in wildfires ripping through Northern California. (Oct. 9) AP
Wildfires destroy 1,500 structures and large swaths of northern California wine country as powerful winds fuel ‘an inferno like you’ve never seen before’