[chris]

A wildfire-generated fire tornado developed a base about 1,000 feet wide, with winds gusting to 165 mph, according to Cal Fire. The column rose 7.5 miles into the air, tore roofs from homes, and toppled power lines. It was reported hot enough to melt steel.

The fire began near an intersection on Highway 299 after a vehicle with a flat tire scraped its rim on the asphalt, producing sparks that ignited vegetation. Hot weather and steep, inaccessible terrain hampered containment efforts.

Highway 299 was closed and French Gulch was placed under mandatory evacuation. A fire inspector was killed when the tornado overtook his truck.