US: Emergency crews working to contain wildfires across parts of northern California as of early Aug. 18 /update 1

Event

Crews are working to contain dozens of wildfires burning across parts of northern California as of early Aug. 18. The affected area includes parts of Del Norte, Nevada, and Siskiyou counties. The fires were mostly sparked by lightning strikes across forested areas of the region in recent days and have been aided by hot and dry conditions; however, light rainfall is forecast in the region over the coming days, which may aid firefighting efforts.

As of early Aug. 18, the following fires continue to cause evacuations and transport disruptions:

Head Fire
The Head Fire in Siskiyou County is one of more than 20 fires burning in parts of the Klamath National Forest. The fire broke out just south of Highway 96 near the town of Hamburg late Aug. 15, and is approximately 1,619 hectares (4,000 acres) in size and zero percent contained as of late Aug. 17. Authorities have issued evacuation orders for areas south of Hamburg, east of Horse Creek Road, north and south of Highway 96, South Forest Route 46n64, and south of Scott River Road. Evacuation warnings are in place for areas surrounding the evacuation order area. Emergency shelters are in place at the Kahtishraam Wellness Center in Yreka and the Karuk Wellness Center in Happy Camp. Highway 96 is closed from the junction with State Route 263 to Seiad.

Den Fire
The Den Fire is another fire in the Happy Camp Complex of fires in Klamath National Forest, Siskiyou County. The fire broke out north of Horse Creek late Aug. 17 and has grown to around 40 hectares (100 acres) in size. Evacuation orders have been issued for East Mckinney Road and areas north of Highway 96. Evacuation warnings are in place for surrounding areas. The Kahtishraam Wellness Center is open for those in need of shelter.

Highway Fire
The Highway Fire in Nevada County broke out near Washington Road, south of Alpha Road and Highway 20, Aug. 16. As of late Aug. 17, the fire has grown to approximately 13 hectares (31 acres) in size and is 5-percent contained. Authorities issued evacuation orders for at least 185 people in surrounding areas Aug. 16, including the town of Washington. Some evacuation orders have since been lifted; however, evacuation orders remain in place for Washington Road north of Phelps Hill Road to the Town of Washington and Zone NCO-030. Evacuation orders are in place for some surrounding areas. A temporary evacuation point is located at the Madelyn Helling Library.

Smith River Complex
The Smith River Fire Complex consists of around 13 wildfires burning over 2,954 hectares (7,300 acres) mainly located within the Smith River National Forest in Del Norte County. Most of the fires were ignited by lightning strikes since Aug. 15. Evacuation orders have been issued for residents near Patrick Creek, Little Jones Creek, Copper Creek Drainage, Coon Creek, Washington Flat, Pioneer Road, and Panther Flat Campground area. Level 2 'Get Set' and Level 1 'Be Ready' evacuation warnings are in place for some surrounding areas. An emergency shelter has been established at Del Norte County Fairgrounds for those impacted by the fires. US Highway 199 is closed in the area, as are several county and forest roads.

Depending on the progression of the wildfires, the status of nearby roads could change over the coming hours and days. Authorities could close additional routes within the wildfire complexes and evacuate more communities due to fire activity and the needs of response operators. 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 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

US Forest Service - Six Rivers National Forest
Nevada County Sheriff's Office
Siskiyou County Sheriff's Office