The number of people who have gone missing crossed 600 as of Thursday, November 16 due to the Camp Fire, California’s most devastating fire accident ever. Fatalities have climbed from 56 to 63.
Three of the deceased were found in Magalia of which two lost their lives indoors and one, outdoors. Three were found dead in and around Paradise of which two lost their lives indoors and one died while inside a vehicle. One individual was found dead in Concow.
A cursory level of identification has been obtained for 53 of the 63 victims who lost their lives during the camp fire. Officials are waiting for DNA confirmation before revealing the names of the victims to kith and kin.
The Butte County administration is constantly updating information with the latest numbers and statistics. The number of missing people saw a substantial spike over the last 24 hours. Officials are keeping track of the number of missing people based on inputs from a variety of sources including incoming calls, Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) and automated Records Management Systems (RMS) records.
The camp fire broke out more than a week ago on Thursday, November 8 in the town of Pulga. More than 140,000 acres of land have been burnt away. A major concern for emergency officials is that 60% of the camp fire is yet to be contained.
Nearly half a million people have been displaced. Those who have had to evacuate their homes are finding refuge in shelter zones. Others are using their vehicles for cover and many have put up tents. However, cold weather is making conditions all the more severe. The list of missing people is constantly being updated at www.buttecounty.net/sheriffcorner. Those who encounter any discrepancy regarding the names published on the web page can call (530) 538 6570 / 538 7544 / 538 7671 and clarify the same so officials can better utilize available resources.
Butte Country’s Sheriff has asked for 500 search crews and more cadaver dogs.
The rising carbon monoxide content in the air is another health hazard that rescue squads in the region have to confront. Smoke from the camp fire has spread as far as Sacramento and San Francisco. For more than a week now, the northern part of California has been shrouded in a thick cloak of unhealthy smoke. Local agencies have been busy handing out tens of thousands of face masks. Many educational institutions have suspended operations and will reopen only after Thanksgiving on Monday, November 26.
Nearly 12,000 constructions have been brought down, a substantial portion of which were residences. Norovirus broke out at a shelter zone due to which 21 individuals fell sick.
The President, Donald Trump, will visit the state this weekend to expedite recovery efforts.