Mendocino Complex Fire reaches 302,086 acres, Highway 20 reopens

MENDOCINO/LAKE COUNTY, Calif. (KIEM) – The largest wildfire in state history continues to grow at an alarming rate.

The Mendocino Complex Fire expanded to over 300,000 acres overnight, far surpassing the 2017 Thomas Fire as the largest on record.

The fire fortunately is now burning into the Mendocino National Forest, and away from populated areas around Clear Lake.

Still, more than 13,000 residents remain evacuated.

Cal Fire says combined containment of the complex fire remains at 47%, although containment on the larger Ranch Fire increased considerably over the past 24 hoursm to 46%.

Caltrans says Highway 20 is now reopened, after being closed for 11 days due to the Ranch Fire.

While the area near Highway 29 to Highway 53 is open, drivers should remain cautious, with fire crews still working in the area.

Emergency evacuation information is available, here.