Latest News About California wildfires 2024

In 2024, California recorded over eight thousand wildfires burning about 1,077,711 acres resulting in 1,837 structures lost and one fatality. 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. Major fires included Riverside, Los Angeles, and surrounding counties 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, with substantial acreage burned but a lower total compared to some prior peaks, and lasting effects on communities and infrastructure.