Numerous Structures Threatened In Power Fire

Pinecrest, CA — Forest Service Officials report numerous structures are threatened in the 824 acre Power Fire which is 25% contained. At this time no evacuations have been ordered, and no structures have been damaged or destroyed. The Forest Service released a new map (to the left) to further clarify the location of the blaze. The fire is reported as in the Middle Fork drainage of the the Stanislaus River, 4 miles northwest of Pinecrest. All roads, local businesses and recreation areas are open.

Forest Officials are calling the terrain very steep and rugged with critically dry vegetation, hardwood slash, brush and timber. Two injuries have been reported, but there are no details on what they entail. Forest Officials say crews are dealing with loose rocks and trees falling downhill. They say today dozers will continuing to put in fire lines and connect roads along ridge tops. Hand crews will continue to construct containment lines.

A total 365 fire fighters are on scene. Resources include: 12 hand crew, 2 water tenders, 4 helicopter, 10 engines, 3 dozer, 5 helitak, and 7 fixed wings. The agencies working on the blaze are the US Forest Service, Cal-Fire, California Highway Patrol, Tuolumne County Sheriff’s Office, Caltrans, PG&E.

One added note, Tuolumne County Health Officials continue to advise residents to limit exposure to smoky conditions, notably those with medical conditions, the elderly and young children. The fire is expected to burn for an extended period.