Favorable weather helps fight against Electra Fire in Amador County; containment at 40%
JACKSON -- Favorable weather early Wednesday aided the fight against a wildfire in California's Gold Country that has forced evacuations in two counties.
According to Cal Fire's Wednesday afternoon update, the Electra Fire has consumed 4,112 acres with containment increasing to 40%.
"Humidity recovery in the early morning hours moderated fire activity," Cal Fire said.
The fire erupted Monday afternoon in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, forcing evacuations in Amador neighboring Calaveras counties.
Cal Fire said the number of threatened structures remained at 1,217, but there were no reports of structures destroyed or damaged. One firefighter has been injured.
The National Weather Service said overnight infrared satellite imagery showed a "waning heat signature" from the fire as relative humidity levels reached 75% to 90% and northerly winds were generally light. Westerly breezes were expected by afternoon.
On Tuesday, mandatory evacuation and evacuation warning zones in Amador County were expanded due to the fire, the Amador County Sheriff's Office said.
According to Sacramento affiliate CBS 13, residents were told to refer to a map posted to the Amadore County Sheriff's Facebook page. People can also enter their address in this website to see if it falls inside the order or warning zones.
In Calaveras County, evacuation warnings due to the encroaching are now being issued for the following zones: 353, 354, 342, 343, 328, 329, and 330. A map of the area affected can be found here.
Road closures are also in effect throughout the area. The following intersections are closed: Highway 88 at Tabeau Road, Highway 88 at Mount Zion Road, Clinton Road at Butte Mountain Road, Clinton Road at Amador Lane, Clinton Road at West Clinton Road
The fire started at a recreation area along a river where people were celebrating July Fourth. The cause remained under investigation, but Amador County Sheriff Gary Redman has said the location could suggest fireworks or a barbecue as a cause.