SISKIYOU COUNTY, Calif. — The Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office has downgraded evacuation orders in the Mount Shasta region to evacuation warnings after firefighters were able to further contain the so-called Lava Fire.
Believed to be caused by a dry lightning strike near Weed, Calif., the Lava Fire is currently at 25,001 acres and 71% containment, according to the latest update.
Fire crews were focused on the upper regions of Diller Canyon as well as Whitney Creek and the Bolum area on Monday.
"The fire remains active burning pockets of fuels on the northwest facing slopes of Mt. Shasta. Fireline Suppression Repair efforts have begun with road repair and improvement. A Cal Fire Damage Inspection Team has arrived and began assessment," officials said in their most recent update.
Residents were able to return to their homes on Sunday night, but are urged to stay cautious when dealing with any damage or debris.
The following areas are now open to residents:
- Mt. Shasta Vista Subdivision
- Communities of Lake Shastina and Juniper Valley off Big Springs Road from Highway 97 to McDonald Lane on both east and west sides of Big Springs
- County Road A-12 north and south
- Harry Cash Road
- 4 Corners (Big Springs Rd at County Road A-12) to Hart Road
- North side of Hoy Road
Highway 97 is now open following a closure due to the Lava Fire and Tennant Fire. Officials said fire and Caltrans personnel continue to work on and around the highway.
Accounts to follow for updates:
MAPS
EVACUATIONS
WILDFIRE PREPS
According to Cal Fire, 2020 was one of the most severe fire seasons on record as 9,917 wildfires burned 4.2 million acres. Over 9,000 structures were destroyed, and 31 people (civilians and firefighters) were killed.
California also experienced its first "Gigafire" because of the August Complex Fire, burning over 1 million acres by itself. Four of California's top five largest wildfires in state history happened in 2020.
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.
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