The Camp Fire, which began on November 8, 2018, in Butte County, became California’s deadliest and most destructive wildfire. Fueled by strong winds and dry conditions, it rapidly destroyed the town of Paradise, leaving a staggering 85 dead and over 18,800 structures in ruins.
The fire ignited near Camp Creek Road and spread quickly, scorching more than 153,000 acres. Entire communities were forced to flee, with some escaping through walls of flame. It became a grim reminder of the growing dangers posed by climate change and inadequate fire prevention measures.
Investigators traced the cause to a faulty PG&E transmission line, leading to lawsuits and the utility’s bankruptcy. The company was later found guilty of 84 counts of involuntary manslaughter. The fire exposed critical weaknesses in infrastructure maintenance and wildfire preparedness.
The Camp Fire’s devastation highlighted the urgent need for proactive measures, including forest management and infrastructure upgrades. While Paradise has begun rebuilding, the tragedy remains a chilling benchmark of wildfire destruction and a warning for fire-prone regions worldwide.
The Camp Fire, which began on November 8, 2018, in Butte County, became California's deadliest and most destructive wildfire. Fueled by strong winds and dry conditions, it rapidly destroyed the town of Paradise, leaving a staggering 85 dead and over 18,800 structures in ruins.🧵 pic.twitter.com/2VAPYR6j7X
— Detective Tiger's Stories (@TigerDetective) January 9, 2025