A severe heatwave has increased fire risk and sparked multiple wildfires across California. The Pickett fire in Napa County grew rapidly, forcing hundreds of Calistoga residents to evacuate and prompting extensive firefighting lines along Rattlesnake Ridge. The Pickett fire expanded from 2,133 to 4,690 acres with containment levels remaining low and about 1,200 personnel assigned. Smaller fires emerged in Kern and Alameda counties, burning hundreds of acres with some containment and visible smoke across the East Bay. No structural damage or injuries were reported, and officials urged vigilance and preparedness as conditions remain volatile.
The Pickett fire broke out Thursday near a remote area in Napa County as weather officials warned about elevated fire threats across the region. The fire quickly spread to 2,133 acres with no containment by Friday morning, forcing hundreds of residents in the small city of Calistoga - known for its wine - to evacuate. Fire Chief Ryan Isham said crews worked throughout Thursday night, forming a second line of defense along Rattlesnake Ridge to curb the Pickett fire from progressing into Pope Valley.
As temperatures warm up, "you will expect to see increased fire activity throughout the perimeter of the fire," Isham said in a video update to Facebook. The Pickett fire remained at 3,993 acres with 7% containment until Friday night. By Saturday, the fire spread to 4,690 acres, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. About 1,200 fire personnel are currently assigned to the Picket fire, according to Cal Fire.
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