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Smoke Rises From SCU Lightning Complex Fires, Declared Third-Largest in California History

The SCU Lightning Complex fires had spread to nearly 300,000 acres by the evening of August 22, making the combined blaze the third largest in California history.

The fires, burning in Santa Clara and several neighboring counties, began on August 16 as 20 separate fires, however they later merged into three major blazes, according to a Calfire update.

The wildfire complex had grown to 291,968 acres and was only 10 per cent contained on the Saturday evening. Two structures had been destroyed and two injuries were reported to authorities.

California Governor Gavin Newsom posted this video on August 22 with the caption: “Surveying the SCU Lightning Complex – this is now the third largest wildfire in CA history.” Credit: Gavin Newsom via Storyful