August Complex Fire (2020)
Mendocino & 6 other counties, California · Aug 16, 2020 – Nov 12, 2020
Acres burned
1,032,648
Lives lost
1
Structures destroyed
935
Year
2020
What happened
The August Complex was California’s first "gigafire" — the first single wildfire to exceed one million acres. It formed from dozens of lightning-sparked fires that merged across the Coast Range in 2020.
Cause
Lightning
Location
Mendocino & 6 other counties, California
Key facts
- ▪First California fire to top 1 million acres
- ▪Merged from 38 lightning-caused fires
- ▪Largest wildfire in recorded CA history
- ▪Part of the record 2020 fire season
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Related major fires
August Complex Fire FAQ
When was the August Complex Fire and where did it burn?
The August Complex Fire started Aug 16, 2020 in Mendocino & 6 other counties, California, and was contained Nov 12, 2020.
How many acres did the August Complex Fire burn?
The August Complex Fire burned approximately 1,032,648 acres.
How many people died in the August Complex Fire?
Approximately 1 person died in the August Complex Fire.
What caused the August Complex Fire?
Lightning.
Figures are approximate and compiled from official agency reporting; totals for recent fires may still be revised. FireRisk.ai is an independent wildfire-risk service.