A day after Cal Fire issued their final update, effectively closing out the Jerusalem Fire in all but continued activity along the fire line, containment increased to 95 percent. Total acreage blackened by the blaze that erupted northeast of Middletown on Aug. 9 remained at 25,118.
Fire crews transitioned into a mop up phase. Hand crews worked methodically through the area tamping out hot spots — an arduous task under water restrictions, involving manual labor, tools and sometimes even a smother of dirt. Engines continued to patrol the perimeter.
With the adjacent Rocky Fire declared 100 percent contained, crews are shifting to other fires across the west. At the height of both blazes, almost 4,000 men and women from all 21 Cal Fire districts, as well as crews from other states, were in place.
On Tuesday, 2,000 firefighters remained in place, along with 121 engines and 11 helicopters.
All evacuation orders and road closures associated with Jerusalem were lifted by authorities over the weekend. PG&E warned those returning to their homes to watch for downed electrical wires and contact the company if any are evident.
Meanwhile, Cal Fire noted that charred trees and posts should be considered potential fire hazards. Jerusalem destroyed nine homes and 18 outbuildings.
Authorities added that crews are still working in the area.
