Progress Made On North Mountain Fire: Five Minor Injuries Reported

Groveland, Ca — Fire crews are making progress on the 1,400 acre North Mountain Fire in the Groveland Ranger District of the Stanislaus National Forest, but officials believe it will be at least three to four more days before there is full containment.

“The efforts are supported now by a heavy lift helicopter,” says Forest Service Spokesperson Pat Kaunert. “This helicopter is a great asset because it can deliver 2,000 gallons of water to the fire line. That´s the equivalent of about four fire engines for every trip that the helicopter makes.”

422 firefighters are currently assigned to the North Mountain Fire, and Kaunert notes that five minor injuries have been reported. “We´re going to continue working ahead and fighting the fire aggressively, but at the same time, we will be providing for firefighter safety first,” adds Kaunert.

Firefighters are also preparing for the possibility of inclement weather over the next couple of days, and Kaunert says officials will be vigilant in watching for new lightning down strikes.

Written by BJ Hansen