Wildfires in US California prompt mandatory evacuations

Los Angeles, July 21 (IANS) Several wildfires burning in US state of Californian spread, prompting local authorities to issue mandatory evacuations.

In the northern Lassen County, Hog Fire, which was first reported Saturday afternoon, grew to 5,800 acres (23.5 square kilometers) with zero percent containment, according to the latest information from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) Monday morning, Xinhua news agency reported.

The Lassen County Sheriff’s Office and Cal Fire announced mandatory evacuations for Lake Forest Estates and other areas as firefighters were fighting the blaze.

Fire staff said terrain issues and spot fires continued to be problems as they fought the fire and tried to make fire lines to contain the blaze. There was no report of home damage or injuries.

Another wildfire, dubbed Badger Fire, burning close to the California and Oregon border, scorched 450 acres (1.8 square kilometers) Monday morning and was 15 percent contained, Cal Fire reported. Due to steep terrain and limited access, crews had a “difficult time” gaining full containment of the blaze and evacuation remained in effect.

Meanwhile, Mineral Fire in rural central California grew to 28,221 acres (114.2 square kilometers) but firefighters increased containment to 49 per cent, Cal Fire said Monday noon, adding 1,564 people were fighting it with the help of 19 helicopters.

Three structures were damaged and other four were destroyed by Mineral Fire, Cal Fire said.

–IANS

rt/