Overview

• Firefighters are battling the 3,500-acre Thompson Fire with no containment in sight.
• Evacuation orders affect thousands in Butte County, with many residents choosing to stay and defend their properties.
• The fire has impacted critical infrastructure, including hydroelectric power at Oroville Dam.
• Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency and secured federal aid for firefighting efforts.
• The ongoing heat wave and high winds are exacerbating fire conditions, making containment challenging.