The Park fire in Northern California has grown to more than 624 square miles, becoming the fourth-largest wildfire in state history, and has destroyed 542 homes and other structures, the Epoch Times reported.

Nearly 6,400 firefighters were battling the massive fire Friday, Aug. 2, reaching 24 percent containment by the afternoon.

The gains could be short-lived as thunderstorms moved into the region. Fire and weather officials warned the erratic winds and lightning forecast for the area over the weekend could impact the fire, the newspaper added.

Meanwhile, crews are preparing for increased heat next week, the authorities said.