FRESNO COUNTY, Calif. (KMJ/KFSN) — Officials have determined that the Garnet Fire in the Fresno County mountains was caused by lightning.
It comes as the emergency declaration was formally approved by the Fresno County Board of Supervisors.
As of Friday morning, the flames have charred more than 16,000 acres. Officials expect it to continue growing into the Labor Day weekend.
Officials are asking visitors near the Kings River to use caution and expect heavy fire activity in the area.
The Garnet Fire is the largest of nearly 10 active fires burning in the Sierra National Forest.
Avocado Lake is now the site of the Incident Command Post, which has grown into a small city to support nearly 1,000 firefighters. The base includes catering, showers, medical units and equipment staging areas.
Evacuations are in place around Courtright and Wishon reservoirs, as well as McKinley Grove.
Mandatory evacuation orders are in effect for zones: K27, K30, K31, K32-A and K40
Evacuation warnings have been issued for: K28, K29, K32-B, K74, K85 and K160
Residents are urged to stay alert and follow official instructions.
