The Dixie Fire, ravaging Butte and Plumas Counties, has burned almost 250,000 acres and is up to 35% contained, according to CAL FIRE.
The blaze has destroyed 45 structures and continues to threaten 3,163 more.
"Fire behavior (in the West Zone) is expected to increase due to drying conditions as planned as fire continues to move towards control lines burning unburned interior islands and ridges," the agency said in its latest update Monday morning. "Crews will continue to mop up, conduct fuel reduction operations, and tactical patrol. All damage inspections are 100% complete for this incident."
Columns of smoke have developed over the east zone of the blaze as interior islands of unburned vegetation are consumed. Firefighters are working to prevent the spread of the blaze to the north and continue to mop up the perimeter. The agency asked drivers returning to the area to be mindful of crews working in the region.
National Weather Service meteorologist Ryan Walbrun told the San Francisco Chronicle that more moderate weather over the next two days should help firefighters as they fight the blaze.
Updated evacuation information for both Butte and Plumas counties, including on places where orders have been lifted, can be found here.
The Dixie Fire is the 11th largest wildfire in California history and has been active since July 13.
Officials continue to investigate what initially sparked the flames.
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