Crews are working a fire burning in Little Valley and another in the Galena area, prompting evacuations there, as well. According to Sierra Front, the largest fire has burned at least 750 acres. Evacuation orders are in place for residents in Washoe Valley and Galeena Estates. At least one structure has burned in the Galeena Estates area. Interstate 580 and Old Highway 395 through the Washoe Valley are closed at this time. Road closures are also in place for the Mountrose Highway at Edmonton. An evacuation center has been set up at Depoali Middle School. Officials say anyone with large animals should head to Rancho San Rafael Park. Anyone being evacuated with large trailers or RV’s should go to Silver City RV Park in Minden. Pleasant Valley Elementary is closed today due to the fires, as well as Hunsburger Elementary, Galena High School, Brookfield Elementary, Mountview Montessori, Piccolo, Lenz Elementary, and Huffaker. TMCC’s Redfield Campus is also closed for the day. There are no containment estimates at this time. The cause is under investigation.
Crews are also on scene of a fire burning in South Lake Tahoe near Emerald Bay. That has mandatory evacuations in place for the following areas: Spring Creek, Cathedral, West Shore of Fallen Leaf Lake, Cascade Properties and Cascade Lake. Voluntary evacuations are in effect for communities north of Emerald Bay to Meeks Bay. Winds aren’t helping fire fighting efforts, but the rain is making a difference. High winds are expected throughout the day.