Bolstered by more crews and aerial assistance, firefighters now have 25% containment of the Briceburg Fire, Cal Fire officials said Thursday morning.
Nearly 1,400 personnel are battling the wildfire near Yosemite National Park, which has spread to 4,900 acres.
In addition, eight air tankers and nine helicopters are involved in a suppression effort made difficult by steep terrain and gusting winds.
A day ago, the wildfire covered 3,600 acres and was 10% contained. The fire has destroyed one structure. There are no reports of injuries.
Cal Fire officials said Thursday morning that firefighters will remain focused on fireline construction and strengthening contingency lines.
Mandatory Evacuations in Some Areas
Several areas are under mandatory evacuation orders: addresses on Highway 140 between Octagon Road and Colorado Road; Bug Hostel, all of Buffalo Gulch Road, and the Briceburg Campground.
In addition, Highway 140 is closed from Colorado Road to Savages Trading Post. Officials advise travelers to take highways 120 and 41 into Yosemite National Park.
For information on Yosemite National Park, go to nps.gov/yose or call 209 372-0200.
Sign Up for Emergency Alerts
The New Life Christian Fellowship, 5089 Cole Road in Mariposa, is the evacuation center.
You can sign up for the Mariposa County Sheriff’s Office emergency alert system at this link.
Smoke, Dust Impact Valley
Valley Air District officials have advised residents to stay indoors because of gusty winds and smoke from the Briceburg Fire.
Smoke impacts are expected to continue until the fire is extinguished while the blowing dust should subside by Thursday, the district said.
Residents can use the district’s Real-time Air Advisory Network (RAAN) to track air quality at any Valley address by visiting myRAAN.com.
