NorCal wildfire in Santa Cruz Mountains forces at least 150 residents to evacuate

ByMatt Keller KGO logo
Tuesday, October 17, 2017
Santa Cruz Mountains wildfire prompts evacuations
Firefighters are hoping calm winds and humidity will help them put out a wildfire in the Santa Cruz Mountains that's threatening homes and left at least five firefighters injured.

SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAINS, Calif. -- A wildfire burning in the Santa Cruz Mountains in Northern California has forced at least 150 residents to evacuate on Tuesday.

So far, the fire has burned 152 acres and is 5 percent contained.

The blaze started as a house fire that ignited late Monday night near Bear Creek and Deer Creek roads. The flames spread into the brush.

At least 100 homes are threatened and one structure has been destroyed.

Officials said evacuation orders are in place for the community of Deer Creek as well as Las Cumbres.

Firefighters said resources won't be an issue, even though Cal Fire has been spread out all over California.

Cal Fire had six aircraft on order, but due to the heavy smoke, they are only using three at this time.

There are evacuation centers at Lake View Elementary School and the Zayante Fire station.

Cal Fire officials said they are hoping calm winds and humidity will help them put out the fire. They also said are getting reinforcements on Wednesday.

During a press conference, Cal Fire said five firefighters suffered minor injuries. One fell into a ravine battling the blaze. The firefighter suffered a broken wrist and cuts to face.

Three other firefighters fell down a hill but are expected to be OK. Another injured individual was an inmate who was part of the hand crew. That person had to be taken out from battling the fire due to smoke inhalation.

PHOTOS: Crews battle wildfire in Santa Cruz Mountains