Fast-Moving River Fire Grows Dangerously Close to Yosemite National Park
A fast-moving wildfire broke out on Sunday afternoon and following a night of wind-fueled growth, the fire now poses a danger to Yosemite National Park and nearby communities.
The River Fire in Mariposa and Madera counties exploded to 4,000 acres overnight with just 5 percent containment as CalFire increases the firefighting resources in the area to battle the flames. With triple-digit heat and 15 mph winds, the fire grew closer to the residents of Mariposa, Raymond, Ahwahnee and Oakhurst. It also sits about 15 miles from the southern entrance of Yosemite National Park.
“Firefighters continue to aggressively attack the fire while dangerous heat persists,†Cal Fire reported on Monday morning. “Extreme fire behavior due to low fuel moisture and persistent drought is a concern. Crews are working hard to construct and reinforce control lines. Damage assessment is ongoing.â€
Video online shows the frightening scene in the Eastern Sierra:
🔥 #RiverFire After some accurate mapping updates. The fire is at 4,000 acres and 5% contained. One structure is reported destroyed. Headed back Into the fire to catch some air tankers. pic.twitter.com/Bz1tCIKYRJ
— Olen Hogenson KMPH (@olenhogenson) July 12, 2021
Evacuation Orders
Madera and Mariposa County authorities have issued an evacuation order for the following areas:
- Indian Peak and Road 800
- Leland Gulch to Road 600
- Road 800 between Road 613 and Road 812
- Intersection of Road 800/Road 810 to Road 600
- Road 812 to Road 600
- Road 600 to Road 812 to Blazing Saddle trl
- Road 600 between Road 810 and Apache Ranch Road
- Road 600 north of Apache Ranch Road to CA-49
- Road 600 south of road 810 to road 612
An evacuation warning has been issued for the following area:
- 1 mile east of Rd 600, 1 mile north of Rd 600
We will continue to update this situation as more information is made available.
