Railroad Fire destroys 14 structures, burns 9,700 acres

MADERA COUNTY (KFSN) -- The crackling flames of the Railroad Fire have now burned more than 9,700 acres. Several hundred structures are threatened while over a dozen have already been destroyed.

"There are 14 structures destroyed, some of those structures are people's homes, there are several historic buildings that have been lost as well," Anne Grandy with the Forest Service service said.

More people were forced to evacuate from the Sky Ranch Road and Cedar Valley areas after winds from a passing storm caused the fire to spread in just hours.

"If you have a lot of wind, it's just going to increase fire activity, and it's already a very active fire," Grandy said. "So wind just adds another factor of safety concern."

Dozers are working to create fire lines, while engines are working to protect nearby homes and structures from the flames. The U.S. Forest Service officials say about 800 fire crews are working to contain the blaze but so far, dead trees and steep terrain are hindering their efforts.

Chainsaws can be heard along Highway 41 as Cal Trans crews work to cut down hazardous trees that were badly burned by the fire.

"Now with this fire, it's a recipe for disaster," Sam Yniguez with Caltrans said. "We want to get in there while the roads are closed and remove the threat of any falling trees."

Evacuation centers are open on Oakhurst, however, Highway 41 remains closed in the area.