On Tuesday morning, Cal Fire commander Barry Biermann attributed the successfully pushing containment to 15 percent to favorable weather conditions.
In the afternoon, however, winds kicked up, swirling in different directions. Hot spots ignited in several locations and a flare up along Butts Canyon Road drew the attention of aircraft and hand crews. Still, firefighters were able to double containment, extending the line to 30 percent.
The Valley Fire had consumed 67,200 by 9 p.m. on Tuesday — up just 200 acres from the morning count.
Some of this remarkable success can be attributed to calm morning weather and rising humidity. But Cal Fire threw additional resources at the Valley Fire. A total of 16 helicopters were in action throughout the day, where eight started the operation. Another eight air tankers targeted plumes of smoke. Some 15 new bulldozers and 30 engine crews arrived, bringing the total to 46 and 289, respectively.
Firefighters anticipate cool temperatures and a likelihood of rain today, which they believe will aid efforts. Biermann pointed out that crews were working hard to beat down the fire before the return of warmer, drier conditions.
Of course, the announcement on Monday of the first death resulting from the fire dampened enthusiasm, as did the 585 homes destroyed, according to initial surveys. Biermann said the terrain along the southern and southwest perimeter is rugged and difficult to access. He added that the Geysers power plants were also a concern and a priority.
Fire crews have had trouble accessing the area because of downed power lines and other obstructions, but the roads are opening up, allowing teams to get more direct access.
PG&E teams were out in force, installing new poles and repairing downed lines. Other responders worked to clear partially burned brush and trees.
Residents of the Riviera Communities were allowed to return to their homes at 10 a.m. Just over two hours later, firefighters doused a blaze that erupted along Fairway Road in Clearlake Riviera. Some reports suggest a vehicle slowed, then sped away suddenly as the blaze started.
In the evening, authorities reopened Highway 29 to all traffic between Kelseyville and the intersection of Highway 53 in Lower Lake. Other closures remain in place and several roads are restricted to necessary traffic.
The full list will be updated by Cal Fire today.
The Lake County Sheriff’s Office reminds drivers to be cautious as there are still recovery and fire suppression crews using the roads. Because of the volume of calls received during the day, they asked that residents not call the Lake County Sheriff’s Central Dispatch for information regarding escorts into the evacuated areas.
