Evacuation orders have been issued for remote California communities near a wildfire that could be triggered by fireworks or barbecues during the July 4 holidays.
In the Sierra Nevada Gold Country – a mountainous area that attracts many tourists – Monday afternoon’s electric fire tripled to 6.1 square miles. It was held at 5% on Tuesday night.
Firefighters said the blaze was making short and steep runs.
“The distribution is not the same as it was yesterday, but it is still expanding,” said Amadore County Sheriff Gary Redman.
He said firefighters were working to keep the blaze out of the canyon.
Compulsory eviction orders and warnings have affected up to 700 residents of Amador County and 300 to 400 residents of Calaverras County, Mr Redman said.
Rehabilitation centers have been set up for humans and animals.
The blaze broke out in a crowded recreation area, forcing 85 to 100 Americans to take refuge in Pacific Gas and Electric Computers during a river celebration, Mr Redman said. Later, they all moved in peace.
The cause of the fire is unknown, but it is said to have occurred in the North Fork Mocklemene River area of Vox Beach.
Sheriff said fireworks or barbecues could be the cause.
More than 100 fire engines, 1,200 firefighters and 14 helicopters were sent to the blaze, which posed a threat to energy infrastructure, according to the California Department of Forests and Fire Protection. The ground is said to be steep and rugged.
Cal Fire activates firefighting team. “The teams are made up of trained people who provide practical management and support for big and large events,” the spokesman said.
One of the firefighters from the local fire department suffered burns, said Redman.
Vox Beach is 55 miles east of Sacramento in the heart of the Sierra Nevada region in the mid-1800s.
Many other small fires are burning in the state.
