Silverado Canyon fire evacuation orders lifted; acreage downsized to 968 acres, 50 percent contained

SILVERADO, Calif. (KABC) -- Mandatory evacuations orders were lifted for residents in the Silverado Canyon area Sunday as firefighters made progress.

The fire, which broke out on Friday, was downgraded from 1,600 acres to 968 acres Sunday evening. Containment was estimated at 50 percent, U.S. Forest Service officials said.

Crews battling the Silverado Fire were digging new fire lines in Orange County's Cleveland National Forest with the hopes of getting ahead of the fast-moving brush fire.

A total of 1,438 firefighters were battling the flames, aided by water-dropping helicopters. Six firefighters suffered minor injuries.

Mandatory evacuations for residents in the 30300 block of Silverado Canyon Road east to the end of the canyon were lifted Sunday evening, Orange County Sheriff's Lt. Jeff Hallock said.

Residents may only access their residences utilizing Silverado Canyon Road. The road will remain closed for non-residents.

Residents should be prepared to present law enforcement with identification and proof of residency.