Napa County, Calif. — August 25, 2025 — A fast-moving wildfire in Northern California’s wine country has forced mandatory evacuations as crews continue battling the blaze by air and ground.
The Pickett Fire, which ignited Thursday afternoon near Calistoga, has burned about 6,803 acres, according to Cal Fire. As of midnight Sunday, the fire was just 11% contained, with more than 600 structures at risk. Authorities say the cause remains under investigation.
Firefighters have been aided by night-flying helicopters and drones, though dangerous heat across the West has made containment difficult. More than 30 million people remain under excessive heat alerts, with red flag warnings posted in parts of Southern California.
“This leadership with prior experience in the rugged terrain, especially from the 2020 Glass Fire, has been crucial in guiding suppression strategies,” Cal Fire said in its update.
The region is no stranger to destructive blazes. In 2020, the Glass Fire scorched more than 11,000 acres in Napa and Sonoma counties, destroying hundreds of homes and vineyards.
So far, no injuries have been reported from the Pickett Fire, but officials warn conditions could change rapidly.
