Northern California wildfire expands to more than 4,000 acres

Don Sweeney, The Sacramento Bee on Sep 13, 2026

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The Lucas Fire in Northern California has burned 4,008 acres in Lake and Mendocino counties, state fire officials said.

An update posted at 7 a.m. Sunday reported that the blaze, which began Thursday near the county line, has reached 20% containment, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection said.

The cause of the fire remained under investigation, according to Cal Fire.

Evacuations have been ordered in both counties and evacuation warnings also have been issued.

An evacuation center and animal evacuation center have been set up at the Lake County Fairgrounds at 401 Martin St. in Lakeport, Cal Fire said

Part of the Mendocino National Forest has been closed, as have several sections of Highway 20.

More than 60 fire engines, 35 water tenders, 50 hand crews and 17 helicopters are battling the wildfire, Cal Fire said. Nearly 1,300 personnel are involved in the effort.

A red flag warning is in effect for Lake County from Saturday through Monday, according to Cal Fire, as warmer temperatures, low humidity and strong winds increased wildfire danger

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