08 Aug 2022 | 10:28 AM UTC
US: Emergency crews responding to wildfires in Siskiyou, Humboldt, and Trinity counties, California, as of Aug. 8 /update 4
Authorities responding to wildfires in Siskiyou, Humboldt, and Trinity counties, Calif., US as of Aug. 8. Evacuations and closures ongoing.
Event
Emergency crews are working to contain several wildfires burning in California as of Aug. 8. Authorities have not provided an estimated containment date for the fires; hot and dry conditions may hamper firefighting efforts over the coming days. Additional wildfire growth is likely.
As of Aug. 8, the following wildfires continue to cause evacuations and transport disruptions:
McKinney Fire
The McKinney Fire is burning in Siskiyou County, between Highway 96 and McKinney Creed Road, southwest of Klamath River. The fire started July 29 and is approximately 50 km (31 miles) south of Medford. As of late Aug. 7, the fire is approximately 24,391 hectares (60,271 acres) in size and is 40-percent contained. More than 3,266 personnel are on-site battling the blaze. Four fatalities have been reported associated with the fire and damage assessments have so far recorded damage to at least 125 homes and other structures. Some evacuation orders and transport disruptions are ongoing; click here for details. An emergency shelter is located at Weed Community Center.
Six Rivers Lightning Complex
The Six Rivers Lightning Complex comprises of around a dozen fires sparked by lightning strikes identified Aug. 5. The fires are located largely within the Six Rivers National Forest area and are affecting parts of Humboldt and Trinity counties. As of early Aug. 8, around eight fires remain active. The fire complex is approximately 521 hectares (1,287 acres) in size and is zero-percent contained. Some evacuation orders and transport disruptions are ongoing; click here for details. Trinity Valley Elementary School, located at 730 Highway 96, Willow Creek
Officials could expand evacuation orders depending on evolving wildfire conditions. The wildfires may cause some additional localized transport disruptions near the affected areas; authorities could close routes and evacuate 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.
