Jerusalem Fire in Lake County now 3,000 acres

LOWER LAKE, Calif. -- A wildfire burning that started Sunday afternoon in Lake County has exploded to 3,000 acres and has prompted mandatory evacuations. A California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection official said the new fire was reported about 3:30 p.m. near the community of Lower Lake.

PHOTOS: Smoke visible from Jerusalem Fire in Lake County

The Lake County Sheriff's Office issued a mandatory evacuation order for the Jerusalem Valley area east of Soda Creek. Authorities say Jerusalem Valley Road is closed to all traffic at Spruce Grove Road and fire personnel and emergency vehicles will be working in the area.

The wildfire is being fought aggressively with five air tankers and three helicopters. Some resources from the Rocky Fire have been diverted to this new wildfire.

Officials say the Jerusalem Fire is burning about seven miles southwest of the Rocky Fire, which has burned nearly 70,000 acres since it started on July 29. Capt. Joe Fletcher says the two could merge.

The Lake County Office of Emergency Services says an evacuation center for both wildfires is available at Middletown High School at 20932 Big Canyon Road, and a temporary shelter for pets and animals has opened at 6885 Old Highway 53 in Clearlake.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.