NORTHERN CALIFORNIA – With high winds working through the fire area, officials said Tuesday that the August Complex on the Mendocino National Forest burned another 7,000 acres, with evacuation warnings and orders in three counties remaining in effect.

The August Complex reached 356,312 acres and 24-percent containment on Tuesday, with 1,162 resources committed, the US Forest Service said.

Fire activity increased Sunday due to high temperatures and gusty winds throughout the complex. Fire crews are prepared for ongoing heightened fire activity over the next couple of days due to extreme forecast weather.

A red flag warning remains in effect through 8 a.m. Wednesday.

The Hull, Doe, Tatham and Glade fires have burned into one large fire. The Hopkins Fire, which is 19,782 acres, has spread further into the Yolla Bolly – Middle Eel Wilderness.

With the improved visibility from cleared skies, air operations were able to safely conduct water drops on Monday. Several scoopers and helicopters dropped water on the Hopkins fire. On the southwestern portion of the August Complex, eight air tankers and two helicopters dropped water in the Monkey Rock area throughout the day, officials said.

Evacuation orders are in effect in Glenn County, and portions of Mendocino and Lake counties, officials said.

Daily updates can be found on the Mendocino National Forest Facebook page.

Updated August Complex information can be found at Inciweb.