Leonard Fire Evacuees Can Go Home

The CDF confirms Leonard fire evacuees will be allowed to return to their homes at 7 p.m. Friday. Only
residents will be allowed into previously evacuated areas. They are asked to be prepared to show proper identification to be allowed back into the area. Some
residents may be without power as P G & E crews continue to replace burnt power poles. Once in the area, residents are asked to drive slowly and carefully
and to watch out for fire crews still on the scene.

Crews are continuing back firing operations along the Murray Creek area in an effort to take the fuel
away from the blaze before hotter weather returns over the weekend. Similar efforts will continue on Saturday. Smoke from these operations will be prevalent
and residents of Tuolumne and Calaveras counties may experience smoky conditions. There is no fire danger to these areas but those with respiratory problems
should stay indoors. The fire is now 80 percent contained and 4978 acres have been consumed. One home, a cabin and a trailer, plus ten outbuildings are
confirmed destroyed since the fire began. The blaze is expected to be fully contained by 6 p.m. Saturday. The cost to fight the blaze is over 3.4 million dollars.
Local residents may call the 24-hour CDF information center at 754-5773, 754-4692, and 754-5527.