US: Emergency crews responding to wildfire in Amador and Calaveras counties, Calif., as of late July 5 /update 1

Event

Crews are working to contain the Electra Fire burning in Amador and Calaveras counties, California as of July 6. The fire started July 4 and is approximately 45 miles (73 km) east-southeast of Sacramento. As of late July 5, the fire was approximately 1,578 hectares (3,900 acres) in size, spreading quickly, and 5 percent contained. More than 1,300 personnel are on-site battling the blaze. Authorities have not provided an expected containment date for the fire; hot and dry conditions are likely to hamper firefighting efforts over the coming days. Steep access to the wildfire location is also hampering response efforts. More than 1,200 structures are currently threatened, but no buildings have yet been damaged. Authorities report approximately 15,000 households losing electricity. Additional wildfire growth is likely.

Authorities have issued mandatory evacuation orders that include the following locations:

• From the intersection of Clinton Road and Butte Mountain Road running east through Clinton to the intersection of Highway 88 and French Gulch Road.

• South of Highway 88 to the Mokelumne River, excluding Rossbridge Road, Previtali Road, West Clinton Road, Irish Town Road, Narcissus Road, and

• North of Highway 26 from Montgomery Drive to Lower Dorray Road.

The following areas are under evacuation warning:

• East from Highway 88 in Jackson to Irish Town Rd. along Highway 88 East to Highway 26 to the Calaveras County Line and include everything south of Highway 26 to the Mokelumne River.

Additionally, the following roads are closed:

• Tabeau Road southbound at Highway 88

• Mount Zion Road southbound at Highway 88

• Clinton Road

• Electra Road at Highway 49

• Highway 26 from Buckeye Lane to Ridge Road

Officials could expand the mandatory evacuation orders depending on evolving wildfire conditions. Evacuation points are located at Italian Picnic Grounds in Sutter Creek for Amador County and Mountain Oaks School in San Andreas for Calaveras County. Those with tents or recreational vehicles may gather at Calaveras County Fairgrounds in Angels Camp or Camanche South Shore Recreation Area in Valley Springs. Amador County Fairgrounds and 90 Clinton Road in Jackson are serving as a shelter for animals. The fire is threatening at least 100 buildings. Reports indicate power outages affecting 2,600 customers in Amador County. At least one crew suffered injuries during the response efforts.

Transport
The wildfire may cause some localized transport disruptions in parts of Amador and Calaveras Counties, particularly along Highway 49. The status of nearby roads will likely change over the coming hours and days; authorities could close routes within the wildfire complex and evacuated communities due to fire activity and the requirements of response operations. The return of residents could disrupt traffic flows after authorities lift evacuation orders. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region.

Advice

Heed all evacuation orders. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours may 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

Amador County Sheriff's Office
Calaveras County Sheriff's Office
Cal Fire AEU
Fire Integrated Real Time Intelligence System
Inciweb
California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE)