US: Emergency crews continue to respond to wildfire in Amador and Calaveras counties, California, as of early July 7 /update 2

Event

Crews continue to work to contain the Electra Fire burning in Amador and Calaveras counties, California, as of early July 7. The fire started July 4 and is approximately 45 miles (73 km) east-southeast of Sacramento. As of late July 6, the fire was approximately 1,664 hectares (4,112 acres) in size and 40 percent contained. More than 1,800 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. At least one firefighter suffered injuries during the response efforts. Power outages have also affected thousands of households in the area; however, as of late July 6, Pacific Gas and Electric reported it had made significant progress in restoring power to many of those affected. Approximately 2,300 households remain without power in Amador and Calaveras counties.

As of late July 6, the following areas remain under evacuation orders due to the fire:

• South of Butte Mountain Road continuing to Highway 88 and Mount Zion, west of Highway 88 and Highway 26, north of Highway 26, and east of Highway 49 in Amador County.

• Zones 100, 103, 104, 351, 352, 358, and 359 in Calaveras County.

The following areas are under evacuation warnings:

• The community served by Lower Clinton Road and Butte Mountain Road, the areas east of Tabeaud Road and Highway 88 to Highway 26, and north of the Mokelumne River in Amador County.

• Zones 327, 328, 329, 330, 341, 342, 343, 352, 353, and 354 in Calaveras County.

Additionally, the following roads are closed:

• Tabeau Road southbound at Highway 88

• Mount Zion Road southbound at Highway 88

• Eastbound Clinton Road at Upper Clinton Road and Butte Mountain Road

• Eastbound Clinton Road at West Clinton Road

• Eastbound Electra Road at Highway 49

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.

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)