Breaking – 3:30
Due to increased fire activity and spotting on the Whaleback Fire, an Evacuation Warning is being issued at this time for those living in the Buck’s Bay to Shores Landing area. Please be prepared to evacuate should conditions worsen in that area.
The Whaleback Fire increased in acres overnight as the unburned fuels in the center of the fire continued to burn out. According to the Fire Management Team’s Tuesday morning update, the Whaleback has reached Eagle Lake on the eastern edge. The most active area of the fire is to the northwest.
As of this morning the fire was mapped at 16,100 acres, with 32% containment. Full containment is expected Wednesday, August 8th.
Currently there are 614 personnel on the fire which continues to burn in timber and brush
Mandatory evacuations are still in place for the community of Spalding, the Gallatin Marina, Ronald McDonald House and the Merrill, Christie, Eagle and Aspen campgrounds.
Monday afternoon Lassen Municipal Utility District announced that crews had restored power to Eagle’s Nest, the Youth Camp, the Marina, Merrill and Christie Campgrounds and Ronald McDonald House. A handful of other customers have also been energized. However, Spaulding, Stones, Bucks Bay and Grasshopper are still without power.
Today firefighters will continue constructing indirect and direct fire lines, preparing for burnout if necessary. They will also be scouting opportunities for contingency lines.
Mop-up and improvement of existing containment lines is also underway.
Fire crews continue to provide structure defense for community of Spalding and developed recreation areas.
Weather today at the fire continues to be hot and dry, with increasing afternoon winds from the west-south-west.
Norcal 1 Type 2 Incident Management Team (Coots) and CAL FIRE Lassen Modoc Unit (Ferguson) are in Unified Command of the incident.
EVACUATIONS
Lassen County’s Health and Social Services Department opened a shelter for evacuees of the Whaleback Fire at Assembly of God Church, 473-465 Richmond Road, Susanville, California 96130. Those affected by the fire can reach the shelter at (530) 310-2783.
It is asked for anyone going to the shelter to bring their medication and medical equipment (walkers, breathing machines, etc.), clothing for three days, and important papers such as insurance cards.
In addition, the shelter is not providing medical care. Any caretakers must accompany you for the duration of your stay.
Please keep in mind weapons, drugs, alcohol and personal bedding are not permitted at the shelter.
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