29 Jun 2021 | 03:42 AM UTC
US: Lava Fire, Calif. causing localized disruptions, as of late June 28
Officials responding to the Lava Fire, Calif., US, as of late June 28. Localized transport disruptions ongoing.
Event
Crews are working to contain the Lava Fire in Siskiyou County, northern California, late June 28. The fire is approximately 100 km (62 miles) north of Redding, California. As of late June 28, the fire was approximately 585 hectares (1,446 acres) in size and 20-percent contained. Authorities have not provided an estimated containment date for the fire; hot and dry conditions may hamper firefighting efforts over the coming days. Additional wildfire growth is likely.
Evacuations
Due to the fire's growth, authorities have issued mandatory evacuation orders for the following areas:
Mount Shasta Vista Subdivision
County Road A-12 north and south
Harry Cash Road from 4 Corners to Hart Road
Lake Shastina and Juniper Valley areas - from the north side of Hoy Road, north along Highway 97 to County Road A-12, off Big Springs Road from Highway 97 to McDonald Lane on both east and west sides of Big Springs Road
Emergency shelter for displaced residents is located at Big Springs Elementary School. Authorities could expand the mandatory evacuation orders depending on evolving wildfire conditions.
Transport
The wildfire has caused some localized transport disruptions in Siskiyou County. Disruptions are underway on Highway 97. Anticipate the status of nearby roads to change over the coming hours and days; authorities could close routes within the wildfire complex and evacuated communities due to fire activity and the needs of response operations. The return of residents could disrupt traffic flows after authorities lift evacuation orders. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region.
Advice
Heed all evacuation orders. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours will cause increased congestion and delays. Collect essential items - including identification and any important legal and travel documents - in an easily accessible "go-bag." Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged power outages.
Individuals not under evacuation warnings should consider remaining inside well-ventilated, air-conditioned spaces to reduce exposure to smoke. Individuals with chronic respiratory illnesses may be more susceptible to the negative effects of smoke inhalation. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water.
