09 Sep 2024 | 05:04 AM UTC
US: Authorities continue working to contain wildfire in Lake County, Calif., as of late Sept. 8
Wildfire response continues in Lake County, Calif., US, as of late Sept. 8. Evacuations ongoing.
Crews continue working to contain a wildfire burning in parts of Lake County, California, as of late Sept. 8. The Boyles Fire broke out the afternoon of Sept. 8 near Dam Road and Boyles Avenue in Clearlake. It has burned around 31 hectares (76 acres) and is 10 percent contained. The fire is burning dangerously close to structures.
Around 4,000 people in the evacuation zones have been displaced. Authorities have issued evacuation orders for zones CLE-E148-A and CLE-E157, including the areas east of State Route 53 between 32nd Avenue and Dam Road, 18th Avenue to 32nd Avenue east of Boyles Avenue, and everything south of the 14th and Boyles Avenue intersection. Evacuation warnings are in place for parts of the surrounding areas. Full details on the locations of evacuation orders and road closures can be found here. An emergency shelter is located at Twin Pines Casino in Middletown. Those requiring transportation assistance to the shelter should go to Clearlake Animal Shelter. Around 30 structures have been burned and 40-50 vehicles have been destroyed.
Depending on the progression of the wildfires, the status of nearby roads could change over the coming hours and days. Authorities will likely close additional routes within the wildfire complex and evacuate more communities depending on fire activity and the needs of response operators. Residents' return will probably disrupt traffic flows after authorities lift evacuation orders. Power outages are likely in affected areas. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region.
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.
