Aggressive Strategy Paying Off As Firefighters Gain Edge On Morgan Fire
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY (CBS13) — An aggressive firefight is paying off for firefighters battling a wildfire in Contra Costa County, with firefighters calling it "all but out."
At last check with Cal Fire, more than 3,700 acres have burned with the fire 20 percent contained. About 100 homes are threatened, and several roads in Clayton are under mandatory evacuation orders.
Flames reached the summit of Mount Diablo Monday morning.
But hours later, it was a hazy, smoke-filled sunset at Curry Point in Mount Diablo State park, overlooking a blackened hillside and a few small spot fires.
Cal Fire says it's a much-improved picture Monday night, compared to earlier in the day.
It's welcome news for evacuees who were forced from their homes late Sunday.
"My kids are OK and we've got a place to stay, so that's the most important thing," said Susan Leary.
Her eyes welling with tears, she just wants to go home.
"Very scary. It's hard to think about losing everything you've worked a lifetime for. But I'm also very concerned about the firefighters—that nobody is hurt or killed defending our properties."
As firefighters gained control, using an aerial attack to keep flames from the community of Clayton, locals donated food and water for crews on the front lines.
"Just my community and they're fighting so hard working at it in the heat and wind, and my mom's actually back there. She hasn't been able to get out of her home," said Trish Risso.
Cal Fire says gusty winds actually worked in firefighters' favor as the day went on, pushing flames into canyons where the fire burned itself out.
Though the picture is improving, this one isn't over just yet, meaning for some, it's another sleepless night, away from home.
"My home's very much at risk right now, and I pray to God it's still there when I get back," said Scott Arnott.
