The Caldor Fire is 76% contained and over 219,000 acres in size
Submitted by paula on Mon, 09/20/2021 - 8:10pm
The Caldor Fire is now 76 percent contained and 219,101 acres in size. It spreads over three counties - El Dorado, Alpine and Amador.
The cause of the fire that started on Saturday August 14th at approximately 07:00 p.m. is under investigation. It started about four miles south of the town of Grizzly Flat.
A Red Flag Warning remains in effect until 11 a.m. Tuesday, September 21 on the west slope due to low relative humidity levels and gusty winds from the east. Due to these conditions, there was increase in fire activity in areas of the interior with unburned vegetation. Winds are causing pine needles and leaves to fall from impacted trees adding to the heavy, downed fuels that
In areas where there is uncontained fire, access continues to be challenging and slow going due to steep, rocky terrain. Ground and aerial resources will continue their efforts to tie existing handlines into natural terrain features and control line. Until weather conditions improve some suppression repair activities will continue to remain on hold for the safety of fire personnel.
The Highway 50 corridor had a partial reopening today for property owners to inspect their property. The forest closures for the Eldorado National Forest and Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit remain in place. Fire officials ask that those traveling through the area be cautious of fire personnel, utility workers, and heavy equipment working in the area and proceed with care not only for your safety but for the safety of the fire personnel. Be prepared to stop and remain alert for changing in fire activity and road conditions.
The Numbers:
Size: 219,101 acres
Containment: 76%
Structures Threatened: 5,465
Structures Damaged: 81
Single Residences Destroyed: 782
Commercial Properties Destroyed: 18
Other Minor Structures Destroyed: 203
Personnel on the fire: 1,504
Engines: 177
Water tenders: 43
Helicopters: 8
Handcrews: 41
Dozers: 29
Other: 43