Firefighters in Oakland are facing a tough battle against the strong winds as they try to put out a brush fire that started on Friday afternoon. The fire, which burned two homes and led to 500 evacuations, has been contained, but the fight is far from over.
According to fire chief Damon Covington, more than 100 firefighters have been working tirelessly to stop the flames from spreading further. The fire started in the Oakland hills in front of a home, and with the help of the winds, it quickly grew out of control.
The winds, ranging from calm breezes to 40 mph gusts, have been a major challenge for the firefighters, especially during red-flag conditions. Despite their efforts, two homes were destroyed and several others were damaged. The fire also led to the closure of the westbound lanes of Interstate 580, although traffic has since resumed.
While some evacuation orders have been lifted, many residents are still unable to return home until the fire is fully under control. Fire crews are also working to remove eucalyptus trees that could pose a threat to homes, as these trees are highly flammable due to their bark and oils.
The fire was fueled by the notorious “diablo wind,” a hot, dry wind that increases the risk of wildfires in the area. As a precaution, a California utility shut off power in 19 counties to prevent any potential fire hazards.
The cause of the fire is still unknown, but authorities have issued red-flag warnings for fire danger across a large part of the state. The winds are expected to persist through the weekend, making the firefighters’ job even more challenging.
The blaze in the Oakland Hills is a stark reminder of the devastating 1991 fire that destroyed thousands of homes and claimed many lives. The diablo wind, named after its devilish nature, dries out the vegetation, making it highly susceptible to fires.
As the firefighters continue to battle the blaze, the community is coming together to support those affected by the fire. It is a reminder of the resilience and strength of the people in the face of such natural disasters. Stay tuned for more updates on the firefighting efforts and the impact of the diablo wind in the region.
