Flash Flood Warning for Park Fire Area in Northern California

BUTTE COUNTY — A flash flood warning has been announced for the Park Fire burn scar area this weekend, as wet weather is anticipated to sweep through Northern California. The National Weather Service (NWS) Sacramento has issued the warning, which will be in effect from 11 a.m. Friday to 11 a.m. Saturday, covering regions affected by the fire that spread through Butte and Tehama counties. The Park Fire, which ignited last month near Chico, has burned nearly 430,000 acres and is currently 57% contained. Although all evacuation orders related to the fire have been lifted, local officials and the NWS are advising residents to remain vigilant and prepared for potential evacuations should the incoming rain lead to hazardous conditions. The warning encompasses several locations, including Big Chico Creek, Mud Creek, and Deer Creek, where scattered rain showers and thunderstorms could trigger debris flows in the burn scar area. Forecasts from CBS Sacramento indicate that rain is expected to begin impacting the burn scar region by Friday evening, continuing through mid-day Saturday. The Park Fire has now become the fourth-largest wildfire in California's history, affecting parts of Butte, Plumas, Shasta, and Tehama counties. In connection with the fire, one individual has been arrested on suspicion of arson for allegedly igniting the blaze in upper Bidwell Park. Looking ahead, triple-digit temperatures are projected to return to the valley and Northern California at the start of next week, raising concerns about further fire risks in the region.