Emergency Alerts and Updates

North Complex Fire Information

Last Updated: October 6, 2020, 7:30 a.m.

The North Complex Fire (formerly known as the Bear Fire) is currently burning east of the town of Oroville, located approximately 25 miles from the Chico State campus.

The campus is safe, there are no evacuation orders for the city of Chico, and the fire is approximately 85% contained.

How We’re Responding

The University's Emergency Operations Center (EOC), which has been active since March responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, has expanded its scope to address the fire and stands ready to assist our community as needed. University Police is already providing mutual assistance for local agencies with evacuations.

The EOC will continue monitoring the fire situation and provide critical updates to the campus community via email, social media, and this webpage.

Staying Informed

All students, faculty, and staff are strongly encouraged to sign up for Chico State Alerts to receive any emergency notifications related to the North Complex Fire and future situations affecting the Chico State campus and community.

Individuals can also follow Butte County on Twitter and Butte County Sheriff on Facebook or Twitter for the latest information on the fire, evacuations, and resources. Consider also signing up for Butte County's Code RED Emergency Alert System.

Evacuation Information

Staying Healthy

Air quality updates—AirNow.gov

October 6 Forecast: Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups
  • Air that is deemed "unhealthy for sensitive groups" by government standards carries the advisory that individuals with heart or lung disease, older adults, children, and teens reduce their exposure by choosing less strenuous activities or shortening the amount of time they are active outdoors.
  • Air quality can fluctuate throughout the day. Please check AirNow.gov for current conditions in your area.
  • N95 masks—information on masks and their use is available on the California Department of Public Health website.

Resources for Students

Students impacted by the fire should contact their professors when convenient for accommodation.

Counseling Services

Students can access support services from WellCat Counseling 24/7 by calling 530-898-6345.

Resources for Employees

Employees impacted by the fire should contact their supervisors when convenient for accommodation.

Paid Administrative Leave

Employees in need of an extended period of time off should review the Family & Medical Leave Program information and contact the Benefits team with questions at leaves-workcomp@csuchico.edu.

Counseling Services

Faculty and staff can contact LifeMatters at 1-800-367-7474 or www.mylifematters.com for counseling and other services. Password: csuchico.

Evacuation Pay

Mandatory Evacuation—Employees who are directed to leave their homes due to a mandatory evacuation and cannot report to work will be eligible for paid emergency closure leave at the time of the evacuation notice. Employees are required to work with their appropriate administrator to secure alternatives to resume work as soon as possible or until the mandatory evacuation order is lifted, whichever is sooner. 

Evacuation Warning—Employees who cannot report to work (either on campus or remotely) due to issues related to living in an evacuation warning zone, will be paid using eligible leave credits.

Ways to Help

For those who want to support wildfire relief efforts, North Valley Community Foundation is accepting donations. 

Important Links