Wildfires are raging across the western United States and Canada, causing damage and evacuations

Intense, dry weather conditions are fueling wildfires in the western United States and Canada, causing property damage, injuries and forced evacuations. The largest active wildfire in the United States has burned more than 280,000 acres in eastern Oregon, while another has spread to more than 145,000 acres in California.

A suspect has been arrested for allegedly starting the largest wildfire in California this year by pushing a burning car into a ravine, causing the park fire to spread rapidly in the Butte County area. This wildfire has consumed an area larger than Atlanta and is only 3% contained. The fire has prompted mandatory evacuations in Butte County, an area previously ravaged by the deadly Camp Fire in 2018.

Three firefighters suffered minor heat-related injuries while battling the park fire, and several structures were damaged or destroyed. The Durkee Fire in Oregon, ignited by lightning near the Oregon-Idaho state line, is the largest of 34 major wildfires currently burning across Oregon. Despite the efforts of more than 500 firefighters and resources from 22 states, the fire has grown significantly due to high temperatures, dry vegetation and strong winds.

The Durkee fire has resulted in three injuries and the destruction of two homes and 12 other structures. Evacuations remain in effect in Baker County and some communities are without power. Heavy smoke from the fire has also disrupted traffic on Interstate 84.

In Canada, a fast-spreading wildfire has prompted the evacuation of thousands of people from the Alberta town of Jasper, with flames destroying up to half of the town's structures. Federal support has been deployed to help fight the fire.

Wildfire-friendly weather conditions persist across the western United States, with triple-digit heat and dry conditions making it difficult for firefighters battling the 89 large wildfires currently burning across the country. However, conditions are expected to improve over the weekend with the arrival of cooler temperatures and higher humidity levels.

In California, a man has been arrested for allegedly setting the park on fire. The fire has caused significant material damage and forced evacuations. In Alberta, Canada, a fast-moving fire has prompted the evacuation of 25,000 residents and visitors from the resort town of Jasper, damaging 30 to 50 percent of the town's structures. Two wildfires converged in the Jasper National Park area, creating a complex that has consumed about 89,000 acres. Federal agencies are working together to provide resources and support response efforts on the ground.