CalFire took to social media Tuesday to showcase its most viewed images of 2024, offering a poignant reminder of the year’s challenging wildfire season.

The agency reported managing 7,994 wildfires that scorched approximately 1,049,956 acres across the state.

The fires took a heavy toll on structures, with 2,077 affected. Of these, 397 were damaged, and 1,680 were destroyed.

Related Story: Displaced by Park Fire, Some Wonder if They’ll Have a Home to Return to

Despite the devastation, CalFire recorded just one fatality — a civilian — marking a decrease from the four fatalities in 2023, which included one civilian and three firefighters.

Comparatively, 2023 saw 7,386 wildfires burn 332,822 acres, affecting 179 structures. That year, 22 structures were damaged, and 157 were destroyed, underscoring the increased intensity and impact of fires in 2024.

The largest blaze of 2024, the Park Fire, ignited on July 24 in Butte and Tehama counties. It consumed 429,603 acres, making it the most significant wildfire of 2024.

CalFire’s Most Viewed Photos of 2024

—

Connect with Anthony W. Haddad on social media. Got a tip? Send an email.