The timing of "fire season" in California is variable, depending on the amount of prior winter and spring precipitation, the frequency and severity of weather such as heat waves and wind events, and moisture content in vegetation.

Northern California typically sees wildfire activity between late spring and early fall, peaking in the summer with hotter and drier conditions.

This early spike in activity was primarily from wind-driven grass fires, more than 30 of which occurred on several days in mid-June with low humidity, high temperatures, and strong winds.

During late July, the total area burned during the 2024 wildfire season saw significant growth due in part to long periods of hot, dry weather.

The following is a list of fires that burned more than 1,000 acres (400 ha), produced significant structural damage, or resulted in casualties.