Thomas Fire news: Largest wildfire in California history forces firefighters to spend Christmas time away from loved ones

Firefighters continue to struggle with California's largest wildfire in state history. Several firefighters had to spend Christmas away from their family due to Thomas fire.

According to the latest report of California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection or Cal Fire, 86% of the Thomas fire has already been contained across over 280,000 acres. Hundreds of people had to celebrate Christmas Eve and Christmas Day on evacuation centers after losing their homes to the fire. The Thomas fire, which has been active for three weeks, has destroyed over 1,000 structures across the Ventura and Santa Barbara County. Two have been confirmed dead so far, including a fire engineer who was in the line of duty.

The fire service department continues to issue Red Flag Warnings in many areas in southern California. Cal Fire also urge other people to help those affected by the Thomas fire. The fire service tweeted, "Firefighters appreciate the support from the residents in the affected fire areas and the community. The BEST gift you can give us is to give to those in need this Holiday season, especially folks who have been impacted by the Thomas Fire."

As reported by Los Angeles Times, southern California firefighters might also welcome 2018 while working. The article indicated that the wildfire will not be fully contained until Jan. 7, 2018.

Thomas fire has already surpassed 2003's Cedar wildfire as the largest wildfire in the state's history. The Cedar wildfire burned 273, 246 acres across the San Diego County; 15 fatalities were reported — 14 civilians and one firefighter in line of duty.

Several organizations have already established donation platforms online for people who want to help or volunteer in any way possible.

The firefighters who are in the middle of battling the wildfire received admiration from the public including celebrities like Paris Hilton, Rob Lowe, and more.

News
Fire severely damages historic Amsterdam church on New Year’s Day
Fire severely damages historic Amsterdam church on New Year’s Day

A major fire tore through one of Amsterdam’s best-known historic buildings in the early hours of New Year’s Day, seriously damaging the property and forcing people to leave nearby homes.

Rwanda’s president on the defensive over church closures
Rwanda’s president on the defensive over church closures

Rwandan President Paul Kagame defended the government's forced closure of Evangelical churches, accusing them of being a “den of bandits” led by deceptive relics of colonialism. 

We are the story still being written
We are the story still being written

The story of Christ continues in the lives of those who take up His calling.

Christians harassed, attacked all over India at Christmas
Christians harassed, attacked all over India at Christmas

International Christian Concern reported more than 80 incidents in India, some of them violent, over Christmas.