The Thompson Fire is raging across Butte County in Northern California. Governor Gavin Newsom has already declared a state of emergency due to the disastrous conditions that are accelerating the wildfire’s growth, like strong winds, dry grasses, and high temperatures. Evacuation orders have been given to people throughout Butte County, too, affecting more than 10,000 residents. Anyone who lives in an evacuation zone must follow the evac orders to keep themselves, their families, and emergency responders safe.
Cal Fire data shows that the blaze scorched more than 3,500 acres of land by the time Newsom’s state of emergency was declared. The fire is currently 0% contained, with firefighting crews acting defensively. Four firefighters have also suffered injuries while fighting the blaze, which might be related to heat stroke or smoke inhalation, but it is not clear at this time. It is also not known how the wildfire began.
Are You in a Butte County Evacuation Zone?
Click here to see a map of current Butte County evacuation zones, including those related to the Thompson Fire, as provided by official Butte County resources. You can also click hereto visit the official Cal Fire website and view a map of the Thompson Fire’s spread.
Where are Evacuation Centers for Butte County Residents?
Currently, there are two main evacuation centers for Butte County residents impacted by the Thompson Fire:
- Nazarene Church of Oroville (OroNaz Church):
- Address: 2238 Monte Vista Avenue, Oroville, CA 95966
- Phone: 530-533-7464
- More information: http://www.oronaz.org/
- Butte County Fairgrounds of Gridley:
- Address: 199 E Hazel Street, Gridley, CA 95948
- Phone: 530-846-3626
- More information: https://www.buttecountyfair.org/
What Should You Do to Stay Safe from the Thompson Fire?
Please prioritize your health and safety and that of your family and pets if you live in Butte County or otherwise could be impacted by the growing Thompson Fire. With planning and preparation, you can help keep yourself safe during this difficult time.
Keep these wildfire safety tips in mind:
- Always follow evacuation orders when they are given. Evacuation orders are not just for your safety but also for that of emergency responders and firefighters.
- Prepare a “go bag” of important documents and essentials that you can take with you if you need to evacuate your home in a hurry.
- Talk to members of your household about where to meet if you need to evacuate and might get separated. You should choose an evacuation center for your meeting point if possible.
- Stay cool and hydrated as best you can due to the ongoing excessive heat warnings in the area that are making the Thompson Fire even worse.
- Check for Cal Fire and news updates about the fire’s progress and direction, so you can anticipate needing to evacuate or change your plans.
From Us at KTB, Stay Safe & Be Well
At Kershaw Talley Barlow in Sacramento, we have helped countless clients throughout the years who lost loved ones and property to wildfires caused by negligence, often utility company negligence. For example, we have represented survivors of the Camp Fires, Dixie Fires, and North Bay Fires. We know how unpredictably dangerous wildfires can be and how stressful every moment can feel until one is extinguished, so we genuinely hope that you and your loved ones stay safe and sound while the brave firefighters and emergency crews of Northern California fight the Thompson Fire in Butte County. Again, be prepared and follow evacuation orders – thank you.
If you ever need our help with a wildfire claim or lawsuit, call (916) 520-6639 at any time.