"The Bug wildfire grew rapidly, expanding from 800 to nearly 90,000 acres in just six days, and required a large mobilization of resources, including over 800 personnel and multi‑million‑dollar costs, before achieving full containment."
The Bug wildfire, located in Lassen County, California, was first discovered on August 8, 2026, and is caused by human activity. By August 9 the fire had grown from 800 acres to 6,528 acres, and by August 11 it had expanded to 44,304 acres. The fire reached a peak of 88,422 acres on August 14, after which containment began to improve, rising to 31% by August 14 and 58% by August 15. By August 18 the fire was 93,733 acres and 87% contained, and it reached full containment (100%) on August 28. Throughout the timeline the fire behavior shifted from active flanking and spotting to extreme running and wind‑driven runs, then to moderate and minimal conditions as containment progressed. Personnel peaked at 849 on August 16, and estimated costs rose from $5,000,000 to $23,807,485 as the fire was brought under control.
Official source description: 4 Miles NW from Cold Springs, NV
Minimal; Smoldering; Isolated Torching
Moderate air quality. Unusually sensitive individuals should consider reducing prolonged outdoor exertion.
Nearest reporting station: Reno-Sparks. Source: AirNow.gov (EPA).
The fire is now fully contained and behavior is minimal; general wildfire safety guidance still applies, but no immediate evacuation or fire restrictions are necessary.
IRWIN ID: {286B7F1D-8945-4A5D-9D81-5235C18AF1FE}
Discovered: Aug 8, 2026
Cause: Human
Est. Cost to Date: $23,813,485
Coordinates: 39.7279, -120.0381
Other wildfires that have recently been contained or dropped from official tracking in CA.
The Bug Fire has burned 93,733 acres as of August 28, 2026.
Yes, the Bug Fire is fully contained (100%).
The official cause has been listed as: Human.
The Bug Fire is burning in Lassen, CA.
No, the Bug Fire is no longer listed as active by NIFC.
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