Tanker makes retardant drops on fire

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WALKER RIDGE – Firefighters were battling the Walker Fire by both land and air Monday in an effort to keep the fast-moving fire from spreading.


Cal Fire reported that the fire had burned more than 3,500 acres since it was discovered Sunday afternoon in the Walker Ridge area near the Double Eagle Ranch subdivision, east of Clearlake Oaks. There is zero containment reported so far.


Due to limited firefighting resources, Cal Fire has stated that the fire could grow to 10,000 acres in size.


A DC-10 tanker was brought in on Monday morning to make a retardant drop on the fire, Cal Fire reported.


It was due to make another drop after 2:30 p.m. Monday, with officials on scene reporting that the fire was making “a significant run,” with winds reportedly blowing from the south southeast.

 

A total of 35 homes were said to be in danger Monday afternoon, Cal Fire reported, up from 10 that were listed Sunday. More evacuations could be possible.


Cal Fire reported that a total of 62 personnel were on scene Monday, along with 13 engines, three bulldozers and three water tenders.


The Walker Fire was burning down toward Highway 20, according to Cal Fire. One area where the fire was getting close to the highway was near the Oasis, a road house located between Clearlake Oaks and Williams.


However, the California Highway Patrol reported that Highway 20 was remaining open, and that they did not anticipate having to close it any time soon.


The county Department of Public Works reported it was shutting down Walker Ridge Road to all traffic with the exception of emergency personnel due to the fire.


Bartlett Springs Road is “enter at your own risk,” with no passage through to Indian Valley Reservoir, Public Works reported. The public is urged to stay away from the area in order to allow fire equipment to get to the fire line.


CHP said Bear Valley Road was being shut down from the Colusa County side.


Lake County News will continue to follow the story as it develops.


E-mail Elizabeth Larson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..


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