SHASTA COUNTY, Calif. — Evacuations have been ordered in a Northern California community as a new wildfire spreads.
The Shasta County Sheriff’s Office issued a mandatory evacuation order Thursday due to the Fawn Fire in the unincorporated Mountain Gate area north of the city of Redding at the northern end of the Central Valley. Residents have been told to temporarily gather in a parking lot at Shasta College in Redding.
The Fawn Fire has grown to 5,500 acres since breaking out Wednesday afternoon. It is only 5% contained.
Cal Fire Law enforcement says they arrested a woman Wednesday afternoon in connection with the Fawn Fire. In a news release sent on Thursday, authorities say they found a woman trespassing and acting "irrationally.' Alexandra Souverneva, 30, of Palo Alto, approached firefighters asking for water and said she needed medical attention.
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Souverneva was taken to a local hospital and was treated. Later that day, she was interviewed by Cal Fire Law enforcement and after questioning her, officers believed she was responsible for the cause of the fire.
The Shasta Count District Attorney's Office recommends she be charged with "Arson to Wildland," which is enhanced due to California's state of emergency, according to the news release.
Statewide, more than 9,000 firefighters remain assigned to 10 large, active wildfires in California.
Accounts to follow
Map of wildfire
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WILDFIRE PREPS
If you live in a wildfire-prone zone, Cal Fire suggests creating a defensible space around your home. Defensible space is an area around a building in which vegetation and other debris are completely cleared. At least 100 feet is recommended.
The Department of Homeland Security suggests assembling an emergency kit that has important documents, N95 respirator masks, supplies to grab with you if you’re forced to leave at a moment’s notice. The agency also suggests signing up for local warning system notifications and know your community’s evacuation plans best to prepare yourself and your family in cases of wildfires.
Some counties use Nixle alerts to update residents on severe weather, wildfires, and other news. To sign up, visit www.nixle.com or text your zip code to 888777 to start receiving alerts.
PG&E customers can also subscribe to alerts via text, email, or phone call. If you're a PG&E customer, visit the Profile & Alerts section of your account to register.
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