Clearlake Fire Prompts Evacuations, Blaze Threatens Walmart and College Campus

A fast-moving fire broke out this afternoon, Sunday, September 8, 2024, in Clearlake, forcing immediate evacuations as the blaze rapidly spread toward populated areas. The

The “Boyles Fire”, reported at 2:19 p.m., has exploded to 15-20 acres in size and growing at a rapid rate of spread. Multiple structures are reportedly threatened and multiple structures have already ignited as a result of the blaze.

The fire has led to evacuation orders for Boyles Avenue from 14th Street south and all of 18th Street from Highway 53 eastward, authorities said. Firefighters are facing multiple spot fires in the area of 9th Street and Boyles Avenue.

The Incident Commander reported that the fire is making a run toward the Walmart shopping center and the Woodland College Campus prompting additional evacuations in the area. Local authorities are urging all residents in the affected zones to leave immediately.

Scanner traffic indicates that some individuals are reportedly unable to evacuate on their own and are asking for assistance.

Air attack teams on the scene have requested two Type 1 air tankers and an additional CAL FIRE helicopter with a crew to assist in fighting the growing fire, which is estimated to have already consumed approximately 3 acres.

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UPDATE 3:12 p.m.: The fire is reportedly making a run towards the Adventist Health Clear Lake Hospital, as per a firefighter on scene.

UPDATE 3:40 p.m.: The fire is now reported to be 30 acres. Multiple buildings are on fire. Air crews are working to drop retardant and fire on the flames but avoid fleeing people. 

At this point the heel of the fire to the west iis looking good and firefighters are working the left flank of the head of the fire to the east.

UPDATE 5:16 p.m.: Cal Fire is reporting that the fire is now 76 acres but 10% contained. About 4000 residents have been displaced and about 30 structures have been burned or have been impacted by the flames.]

UPDATE 8:06 p.m.: Fire crews are making progress in battling the Boyles Fire near Clearlake, which has grown to 76 acres, according to an update from the Lake County Fire Protection District. While forward progress has not been fully halted, crews are working to contain the blaze.

The fire has impacted approximately 30 structures, with damage inspections still underway. Between 40 and 50 vehicles have been destroyed. Evacuations remain in effect, with Twin Pine Casino serving as the designated evacuation center. CAL FIRE is assisting Lake County Fire Protection District in responding to the fire.

Please remember that this story is unfolding. Information is being reported as we gather it. However, some of the information coming from witnesses and initial official reports could be wrong. We will do our best to get the facts but, in the case that something is inaccurate, we will update with correct information as soon as we can.

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