Photos

Photos: Thompson Fire Wreaks Havoc In Northern California

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Flames consume a home on Bessie Lane as the Thompson Fire burns in Oroville, Calif., Tuesday, July 2, 2024. An extended heat wave blanketing Northern California has resulted in red flag fire warnings and power shutoffs. (AP Photo/Noah Berger)

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Flames consume a home on Bessie Lane as the Thompson Fire burns in Oroville, Calif., Tuesday, July 2, 2024. An extended heat wave blanketing Northern California has resulted in red flag fire warnings and power shutoffs. (AP Photo/Noah Berger)

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At least 26,000 people have evacuated their homes in Northern California as the Thompson Fire grew to 5.5 square miles Thursday. The fire burns as the state deals with extreme heat that is expected to linger through the holiday weekend.

The fire broke out before noon Tuesday in the town of Oroville, about 70 miles north of Sacramento. The fire was 7% contained, according to CalFire. Oroville canceled its annual Fourth of July fireworks show.

(MORE: 13,000 Flee Sudden Northern California Wildfire)

Firefighting planes, helicopters and nearly 200 fire engines were also sent to the scene.

The city declared a state of emergency on Tuesday, The Associated Press reported. Photos show burning homes and burned out cars, though there were no reports on how many properties have been damaged.

The fire's cause is still under investigation. Red flag warnings remain in effect until 8 p.m. Wednesday, meaning the threat for wildfire activity is high due to gusty winds and low humidity.

Click through the slideshow above to see images of the fire's wrath.