BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. -- "Even though [we] just passed Labor Day and folks might be thinking summer is over, right now we're historically getting into the heart of fire season," said Dan Collins, Public Information Officer for the Cal Fire Butte Unit.
At approximately 3:50 p.m. on Monday afternoon, the Centerville Fire erupted, initially spreading at a moderate pace. Numerous aerial and ground crews promptly mobilized to the area near Centerville and Honey Run roads. This area has multiple canyons and vegetation, making it particularly susceptible to wildfires, while posing a challenge to crews making their way to the scene.
One firefighter also sustained a heat-related injury, however, received medical attention and was released back to full duties.
"Some of the challenges our folks faced was steep terrain and getting hose and hand tools in and around the fire," said Collins.
On Tuesday, Cal Fire crews began mop-up operations to extinguish any remaining hot spots. Forward progress on the fire halted at 59 acres.
"We want to make sure all the heat, embers, and hidden sources of flames are extinguished so that they don't pop up in the next day or two after we leave the scene and get on the other side of our containment lines," explained Collins.
The cause of the blaze is currently under investigation. However, the Centerville Fire stands as a reminder that the Northstate remains in the midst of fire season.
"Typically our most destructive wildland fires have come in the fall months. Right now, we're in the middle of fire season, even though we've had a very active one up to date, and to definitely take that into consideration when recreating outdoors and working outdoors," Collins said.
For individuals residing in areas with restricted access, such as in proximity to the Centerville Fire, Cal Fire urges you to maintain a high level of vigilance in case an evacuation becomes necessary.
"As our fall winds start to kick up, that's when we see a lot of critical dry fuels, and also fire spreads. Having a plan, knowing your evacuation zone, and adhering to those warning and evacuation warnings early before it's too late. Even though summer is 'over', fire season is not, we're right in the middle of fire season," Collins concluded.