One fatality, 80 buildings destroyed in 20,879 acre Mountain View Fire near Walker

UPDATE 8:30PM: The Mono County Sheriff’s Office reports it has lifted the evacuation order for residents on the westside of U.S. Hwy 395 N. The evacuation order for east of U.S. Hwy 395 N from Eastside Lane to Cunningham Lane remains in effect. Approximately 400 residents are affected by evacuation orders. The order will be reassessed in 24 hours.

Fire behavior today exhibited minimal smoldering and creeping. No additional fire growth is anticipated. T
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Crews continue to work on the Mountain View Fire in the town of Walker, California in Mono County. As of Wednesday afternoon the fire was remapped by infrared cameras at 20,879 acres and is 20 percent contained.

There has been one fatality and one injury due to the fire.

The wind-driven fire started Tuesday, November 17 at 12:15 p.m. The official cause is unknown at this time though reports of the fire on social media said there was a suspected downed power line that ignited dry brush. It quickly moved through grass, sagebrush and pinyon-juniper, demonstrating extreme wildland fire behavior.

Rain and snow fell above the 5,000 foot level which helped slow fire growth.

The goal of wildland fire crews today was to remain focused on protection of the communities of Walker, Coleville, and Topaz as well as the Camp Antelope Native American community. Crews will try to keep the fire east of U.S. Hwy 395, south of Risue Canyon, west of Desert Creek and north of Mill Canyon Road.

Evacuation Orders are in effect for approximately 800 residents. An area closure and restrictions are in effect but US395 has been able to reopen. A shelter and a Temporary Evacuation Point has been established at Carson Valley Inn in Minden.