NORTH FORK (KMJ) — Although there are three wildfires all burning in Madera county right now – only one mandatory evacuation still stands. It’s positive sign coming out of the extinguishing effort and things are looking good for fire crews battling the flames.
In order of magnitude, the Corrine Fire near Auberry is the largest. It currently stands at 920 acres scorched and 75% contained.
Next after that is the Sky Fire near Oakhurst. The flames there have burnt 500 acres and it’s currently 60% contained.
The smallest of the three is the Red Fire near Millerton Lake. It’s around 130 acres and 20% contained.
But compared to the past few days, containment figures are up. There is a positive mood amongst firefighters and the community’s appreciation of their efforts them is clear to see.
“They are very grateful for what all of the firefighters have done”, says Sean Collins with the incident command team for the Sky Fire. “We appreciate that because we know it’s very difficult living in these mountain areas”.
But crews remain on scene for the moment as a change in the weather could dramatically increase the size of the fire.
“It’s very easy if the wind comes in that this 500 acre fire could easily get to 5000 acres”, continues Collins.
Fire agencies from all across the state have descended on Madera County. Crews from the cities of Fresno, Clovis, Los Angeles, and Sacramento are all helping to bring the blazes to a close.
The only remaining mandatory evacuation is for the campers on Sierra Sky Ranch Road. No mandatory evacuations are currently in place for any local residents. Crews are expecting to be able to pull out in the next few days and hand over control to local firefighters to extinguish the last of the flames.
Fire Chiefs say being aware of sparks and small flames can help stop wildfires spreading. They’re encouraging everyone heading out into the hills to keep their eyes open for anything that could start another blaze.
