Mendocino Complex Fire Grows To 5th Largest In California History

MENDOCINO COUNTY, CA -- Two wildfires in Mendocino County grew Sunday morning, making it the fifth largest wildfire in California history. Officials said the Ranch and River fires were 250,000 acres, burning 68 homes and damaging another 12.

But, at least 15,000 structures remain threatened as more than 3,500 personnel work to contain the blazes.

Both fires erupted July 27 before spreading into two different counties and forcing tens of thousands of Californians to evacuate from their homes and businesses.

Also See: Top 20 Largest, Deadliest Wildfires In California History

The Ranch Fire was 23 percent contained while the River Fire was 58 percent contained by Sunday morning. Although containment grew overnight, officials said weather conditions will continue to challenge firefighters as hot and windy conditions persist.

The fire was one of more than a dozen to burn in California with the deadliest being the Carr Fire in Shasta and Trinity counties. That blaze grew to more than 140,000 acres Sunday after claiming the lives of six people.

Pacific Gas and Electric Company officials on Saturday evening said a utility worker died in the vicinity of the Carr Fire, but did not elaborate as to whether the employee died because of the blaze.

--Patch file photo by Renee Schiavone