More than 2,000 fire personnel battling fast moving flames of Detwiler Fire in Mariposa County
MARIPOSA, Calif. (KFSN) -- Flames are moving fast as the Detwiler Fire continues to spread-- scorching thousands of acres in its path. More than 2,000 fire personnel are battling the blaze in the Mariposa County foothills, and extra local, state, and federal units are on the way to help.
Air drops continue as the high flames move through the mountains, threatening more than 1,500 structures.
"It's certainly one of the bigger fires we've had this year-- this is just another reminder of the conditions we're facing this year," said Isaac Sanchez, Cal Fire.
The Governor declared a state of emergency just days after the fire broke out and exploded in size. Cal Fire officials said the mountainous terrain is making it difficult for fire crews to control it.
"If you have a fire established at the bottom of the hill-- that fire is going to race to the top," said Sanchez.
Fire personnel also said the National Guard was activated, and is bringing in more air support. PG&E crews said thousands are left without power and hundreds of power poles have been damaged.
"We're still seeing some power outages, which is to be expected," said Sanchez.
Yosemite National Park, about an hour away, said their power briefly went out on Tuesday.
Cal Fire officials said the priority is to protect homes-- they hope with more support coming in; they can work on getting a better grip on fire to prevent is from growing.
Cal Fire said there has been a few inmate crews with minor injuries, but no major injuries yet.
More than 40 water tenders and almost a dozen helicopters are being utilized by crews to contain the fire. Hundreds of people have evacuated-- many are continuing to do so as the fire spreads.
There is still no answer as to when those residents will be allowed back home, and if they will have a home to return to.
Click here to go to the Detwiler Fire information page for evacuation info and more.
