US: Emergency crews continuing to respond to wildfires in California as of Oct. 3 /update 22

Event

Emergency crews are working to contain several wildfires burning in California as of Oct. 3. Hot and dry conditions may hamper firefighting efforts over the coming days; additional wildfire growth is possible. The following wildfires continue to prompt evacuations and transport disruptions:

Caldor Fire
The Caldor Fire, which began Aug. 14, currently affects Alpine, Amador, and El Dorado counties. The blaze is approximately 80 km (50 miles) east of Sacramento. As of Oct. 3, the fire had burned about 89,749 hectares (221,775 acres) and is 93-percent contained. Approximately 1,336 personnel are battling the blaze. Authorities have estimated that they will contain the fire by Oct. 16. Reports indicate the destruction of at least 1,003 structures and damage to 81 others, as well as injuries to at least five firefighters and civilians. For further information on evacuations and transport disruptions, click here.

KNP Complex
The KNP Complex, which began Sept. 10, currently affects Tulare County. The blaze is approximately 50 km (31 miles) northeast of Visalia. As of Oct. 3, the fire had burned about 25,398 hectares (62,761 acres) and is 20-percent contained. Some 1,531 personnel are battling the blaze. Authorities have not provided an estimated containment date for the fire. For further information on evacuations and transport disruptions, click here. An emergency shelter is located at Woodlake Community Center, Woodlake.

McCash Fire
The McCash Fire, which began July 31, currently affects Siskiyou County. The blaze is approximately 105 km (65 miles) northeast of Eureka. As of Oct. 3, the fire has burned about 37,843 hectares (93,514 acres) and is 61-percent contained. Approximately 430 personnel are battling the blaze. Authorities have estimated that they will contain the fire by Oct. 31. Evacuations and transport disruptions are ongoing. For further information, click here.

River Complex Fire
The River Complex Fire, which began July 30, currently affects Siskiyou and Trinity counties. The complex consists of the Haypress, Summer, and Cronan fires. The complex is approximately 103 km (64 miles) northwest of Redding. As of Oct. 3, the fire had burned about 80,400 hectares (198,673 acres) and is 73-percent contained. Approximately 704 personnel are battling the blaze. Authorities have estimated that they will contain the fire by Nov. 1. For further information on evacuations and transport disruptions, click here.

Windy Fire
The Windy Fire, which began Sept. 9, currently affects Tulare County. The blaze is approximately 65 km (40 miles) southeast of Visalia. As of Oct. 3, the fire had burned about 38,053 hectares (94,032 acres) and is 65-percent contained. Approximately 2,106 personnel are battling the blaze. Authorities have estimated that they will contain the fire by Oct. 14. Evacuations and transport disruptions are ongoing. For further information, click here.

Emergency services will almost certainly remain widely deployed in the impacted region through early October to manage current and future fires. Additional evacuation orders and road closures are likely. Fires could also lead to power supply disruptions.

Advice

Heed all evacuation orders. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in affected areas; road closures and detours will cause increased congestion and delays. Collect essential items - including identification and any important legal and travel documents - in an easily accessible "go-bag." Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged power outages.

Individuals not under evacuation warnings should consider remaining inside well-ventilated, air-conditioned spaces to reduce exposure to smoke. Individuals with chronic respiratory illnesses may be more susceptible to the negative effects of smoke inhalation. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water.

Resources

InciWeb
California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire)