MARIPOSA COUNTY — Suppression efforts continue on the Spring Fire, burning along Highway 49 in the Bootjack area.
The fire has charred an estimated 225 acres and is now 15 percent contained.
There are currently 33 engines, 14 crews, 5 dozers, 4 water tenders, 3 helicopters and 6 air tankers assigned to the incident.
The fire started on Sunday, July 2, just after 1:30 p.m. on the south side of Highway 49, and spread quickly northward, jumping the highway and prompting the evacuations of dozens of homes on Allred and Ashworth Roads and the surrounding area.
Evacuations remain in effect for Allred Road from Highway 49 to Morningstar Lane, and Ashworth Road between Highway 49 and Grist Road. Grist Road remains under evacuation orders as well.
Highway 49 remains closed between Varain Road and Darrah Rd, and Allred and Carleton remain closed at Morning Star. There is no estimate give to reopen at this time. We will post as soon as we hear more on the Highway 49 closure.
At about 10 p.m. last night, Silva Road, Carleton Road and Morning Star Lane were reopened to residents only. Old Oak Lane up to the Ashworth/Grist intersection is also open to residents only.
Residents are required to enter into the Old Oak Lane/ Lower Ashworth area via Ben Hur Road.
The Indian Peak Road evacuation advisory has been lifted.
Those returning home are warned that power is likely to be out in some areas.
One structure has been damaged and none have been destroyed. No injuries have been reported.
A Red Cross evacuation center has been set up at Woodland Elementary School, located at 3394 Woodland Drive.
Volunteers are on hand to provide water, snacks, information and comfort, and are offering affected residents lodging, meals, health services and more.
The Sheriff’s Office reminds everyone to please remember fire is always a FAST moving incident, conditions can change every minute.
“If you are in the fire area and do not feel safe, please evacuate. Do not wait for evacuation orders. If you need assistance getting out of your home for medical or animal issues please contact our office at 209-966-3615. Please do not call in friends or family to help, this just clogs the roads for emergency traffic.”
We will update as conditions change.
(Photo Cal Fire)
