Speedy Evacuations at Oakland hills after fast raging fire
A major bushfire near Interstate 580 in the Oakland Hills broke out on Friday, destroying several homes and leading to a mandatory evacuation. The high winds carried the flames into eucalyptus trees and the former spread quickly across innumerable miles. Mountain Avenue residents saw the fire starting in the afternoon.
According to the local fire department, 35% of it was contained by 7 p.m. The still burning spots were doused by the night by the firefighters. The affected area was contained by the latter’s sustained efforts.
An evacuation order was initially issued for Campus Drive and Crystal Ridge Court but was later expanded to include surrounding neighborhoods. Officials stated that over 500 people were forced to leave their homes as the fire approached.
Delane Simms recounted how her husband narrowly escaped their home after the intense heat shattered their front window. “The explosion woke him up, and he was able to get out safely. I’m just so thankful for that. I thank God for his life,” Simms said. While other houses were damaged by smoke and water, theirs was one of the two suffering major damage. As per the local sources, no injuries have been reported.
Evacuation Center set up in Oakland
After A TEMPORARY evacuation center was set up at Burckhalter Elementary School, a 17-year-old resident of Oakland Hills said, “People always say to be ready for a fire, but in reality, you never truly are. I thought I was prepared, but when it happened, I was scrambling and couldn’t think straight.” A correct estimation of the evacuee number though, was not available.
Oakland Fire Department emergency crews continued with their sustained efforts to contain the fire. Over 580 Interstate lanes were offbound for several hours while the incident occurred. According to Battalion Chief Frank Tijiboy, the wind significantly accelerated the fire’s spread. “This was a fast-moving fire, and the winds only made it worse, pushing the flames much more quickly,” he added.
As the cause of the Oakland fire remains under investigation, incident commanders kept a close watch on wind conditions and available resources late into the night. Meanwhile, a red flag warning was issued for the Bay Area due to the ongoing dry and windy weather, raising concerns about additional fire risks.
Friday’s fire came just one day before the 33rd anniversary of the 1991 Oakland firestorm, a devastating event that claimed 25 lives, injured over 100, and caused billions in damages. The 1991 blaze also began as a house fire and rapidly spread through the hills. Many residents couldn’t help but reflect on that tragic anniversary, expressing hope that this fire would not result in similar destruction.
