Firefighters have made significant progress against the Lucas Fire near the Lake and Mendocino county line in northern California, strengthening containment lines as the blaze’s activity eased over the weekend.
The fire had burned about 4,008 acres by Saturday evening, according to CAL FIRE, and was 15 per cent contained. It started near Potter Valley on 10 September and has spread across Lake and Mendocino counties.
Authorities said the fire is burning in a remote area where difficult access has complicated efforts to tackle the flames. More than 1,200 personnel, including hand crews, engine teams, helicopter crews and bulldozer operators, have been assigned to the response.
Evacuation orders remain in place for parts of Lake County, including areas around Upper Lake and the Mendocino National Forest, while warnings have also been issued for nearby communities. An emergency closure has been imposed on part of the Upper Lake Ranger District.
The cause of the Lucas Fire remains under investigation. Officials have warned that conditions could change quickly, despite the slowdown in fire behaviour and the progress made in reinforcing the lines.
A public meeting was scheduled for Sunday evening at Running Creek Casino, where CAL FIRE, the US Forest Service and the Lake County Sheriff’s Office were due to brief residents on the firefighting operation, evacuations and available support.
