A vegetation fire referred to as the “Kelley Fire” has ignited along State Route 162 near mile marker 22.5, sending smoke and smoke visible from downtown Covelo. Firefighters on the scene described the fire as one-half to three-quarter acre in size, burning in grass and oak woodland at a moderate rate of spread.
The fire, which is burning on both sides of the highway, has brought down powerlines across the roadway, posing additional hazards to the area. Ground and air firefighting resources are en route to combat the blaze and prevent further spread.
The smoke column is visible from Alert California fire cameras on Anthony Peak, Panic Point, and Eden Valley.
UPDATE 11:07 a.m.: Firefighters are requesting SR-162 be shut down by California Highway Patrol.
UPDATE 11:14 a.m.: The Incident Commander reported the fire’s forward progress has been stopped and the mop-up time is estimated to be four hours.
