NORTH FORK — The size of the Corrine Fire has now been estimated at 1,000 acres with just 5 percent containment. Three outbuildings have been destroyed.
There are currently 400 personnel assigned to the incident, with 37 engines, 12 crews, 6 water tenders, 4 helicopters, 4 air tankers and 2 dozers.
Earlier today, a five-acre spot fire that was sparked over a mile east of the Corrine Fire prompted evacuations and warnings from North Fork to Redinger Lake.
At about 1 p.m., the new fire was reported burning just west of Road 225 between Boulder Creek and Whiskey Trail. Road 225 from Road 233 (Cascadel Woods) to Redinger Lake was shut down and residents were told to leave. Many refused to do so, and stayed put.
At 2:45 p.m., the warnings were expanded to include the Cascadel Woods Area and Road 233, but were not mandatory. There is no word on when Road 225 will be reopened to residents.
The Incident Commander had ordered six strike teams of dozers, and they were all sent to battle the new blaze as soon as they arrived, cutting a ring around what eventually grew to 25 acres before ground operations, helicopters, and air tankers knocked it down.
An evacuation center was set up yesterday by the Red Cross for evacuees from mountain area fires at the Sierra Vista Presbyterian Church, at 39696 Highway 41 in Oakhurst.
North Fork area closures now include Road 222 from Road 200 to Kerckhoff Reservoir, and Road 225 between Road 235 (near Redinger Lake) and Road 233 (Cascadel Road).
The fire is burning at a moderate rate of spread, and there continues to be a threat to the North Fork community.
Access to the fire is difficult due to steep terrain. Firefighters are experiencing extreme fire behavior conditions due to drought and low fuel moisture.
Residents should remain cautious of fire personnel and equipment working in the area. There are large engines, water tenders and transport dozers traveling on the mountain roads going to and from the fires. Please use extra caution.
We will update as more information becomes available.
The cause of the fire is under investigation. No injuries have been reported.
