AHWAHNEE, Calif. (KFSN) -- A change of direction in the Ferguson Fire is putting Yosemite National Park and thousands of homes in danger. Residents living around the park are feeling uneasy as the fire continues to grow.
As of Thursday night, it has burned more than 44,223 acres and containment stands at 27 percent.
California Governor Jerry Brown issued an emergency proclamation Thursday afternoon for Mariposa County due to the Ferguson Fire.
RELATED: Governor declares State of Emergency in Mariposa County due to Ferguson Fire
That proclamation will allow additional resources to pour in, including financial reimbursement to Mariposa County for firefighting efforts. Homeowners and businesses can also get financial assistance because of the State of Emergency.
RELATED: Mariposa facing fourth major disaster in less than two years
Authorities reported yet another firefighter was injured while battling the flames on Wednesday. So far, seven firefighters have been injured, and a Cal Fire bulldozer operator died when his tractor rolled over.
The Ferguson Fire's latest target is a cluster of homes about 11 miles east of Mariposa. It's now threatening about 5,200 structures.
The majority of firefighters and planes are hovering by Lush Meadows, which is now under evacuation from the north side of Triangle Road from Vista Lago to East Westfall and all side roads to the north.
RELATED: Parts of Yosemite National Park closed due to Ferguson Fire
The high heat is presenting a challenge for firefighters, with crews having to take special precautions to stay healthy and safe while on the fire line.
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Jim Mackensen, with the U.S. Forest Service, said, "Obviously, like with anybody, when its hot like this you'll have to move a lot slower. You can't go at the same tempo as if you would if it was a cooler day. So it requires the folks to take more breaks, they have to carry more stuff-- it's not unusual for a crew member to work with a hand tool and go through two to three gallons of water a day."
RELATED: Extreme heat, strong inversion layer challenges Ferguson Fire crews
Cal Fire and other agencies are hosting a community meeting Friday for anyone with questions about the fire. It will be held at the Tenaya Elementary School at 6:00 pm.
Road Closures:
Mandatory Evacuations:
These areas are currently under a mandatory evacuation:
Evacuation Advisories:
This is NOT an Evacuation Order. This is an advisement only of a potential Evacuation Order should conditions change.
Next Community Meeting:
Thursday, July 26 at 6 pm
Tenaya Elementary School
5007 Fairgrounds Road
Mariposa CA 95338
Evacuation Centers:
Animal Shelters:
Small Animals:
SPCA
5599 California 49
Mariposa CA 95338
Large Animals:
Mariposa County Fairgrounds
5007 Fairgrounds Road
Mariposa CA 95338