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The American Red Cross is responding as various wildfires erupt around the country. Here thick orange smoke from the Oak Fire in California is evident at the Red Cross shelter in Mariposa. Red Cross photo by Red Cross of Central California.

Another active wildfire season is impacting the country as long-term drought and scorching temperatures combine to raise the threat. Already this year the number of wildfires and acres burned are above the national 10-year average.

Presently there are 93 large wildfires burning in 15 states. One new large fire was reported in each of these states: Alaska, Arizona, Nebraska, Nevada and Texas. Working closely with our partners, the American Red Cross is there to help ensure people have a safe place to stay, food to eat and other critical support.

CALIFORNIA A fast-moving wildfire near California’s Yosemite National Park has forced thousands of people to evacuate. The Oak Fire has burned more than 16,700 acres and is 10% contained. The blaze has destroyed as many as 10 structures, damaged others and is threatening more than 3,200 buildings. The Red Cross is providing shelter, food and compassionate care to help people with medical or disability needs, as well as emotional support during these challenging times.

TEXAS, Governor Greg Abbott issued a disaster declaration for 10 counties in North Texas in response to the Chalk Mountain Fire which has burned more than 6,700 acres so far and is 20% contained. Some 16 homes have been destroyed and five others damaged in the fire. The Red Cross is in touch with emergency managers in these high-risk areas and stands ready to respond when called.

COVID-19 To help keep everyone safe, we are requiring our Red Cross staff to wear face masks regardless of vaccination status. We’re also strongly encouraging shelter residents to wear masks indoors. In addition, we’re using health screenings, enhanced cleaning procedures and encouraging social distancing as much as possible.

FIND A SHELTER It’s critical that those in the path of wildfires listen to the advice of local authorities and evacuate immediately if asked to do so. To find an open shelter, go to the nearest temporary evacuation point, visit redcross.org or view open shelters through the Red Cross Emergency app. If you don’t have access to a computer or smart phone, call 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) to be connected to your local chapter, try calling 211 if this service is available in your area, or your local emergency management office.

YOU CAN HELP people affected by disasters like fires, storms and countless other crises by making a gift to Red Cross Disaster Relief. Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters big and small. Visit redcross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS, or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

Financial donations are the quickest and best way to support people impacted by disaster. Donations of clothing and household items divert resources away from our mission, whereas financial donations can be directed to those in need more quickly. In all cases, due to health code regulations, the Red Cross cannot accept donations of home-cooked meals or food items not prepared in a commercial kitchen.

It is essential to have an emergency kit and evacuation plan in place for you and your family.

Be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice and obey all evacuation orders from officials.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

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