Latest News About 2024 wildfires across California

In 2024, California recorded over eight thousand fire events burning about 1,077,711 acres leading to 1,837 structures damaged or gone and one life lost. Only since 2021 did acres burn exceed this year's yet overall acreage lagged behind peak years, and the wildfire count was slightly above the five-year average. Key incidents hit Riverside, LA County, and nearby areas triggering evacuations, road closures, and damaged structures. Public safety power shutoffs and air quality concerns were reported in several regions. Overall, California faced a high-activity year, marked by significant burn area yet below peak totals of earlier years, and lasting effects on communities and infrastructure.