Fire Update

Our golden hills are scorched looking, but the grass underneath the trees burned so hot and fast that the oaks should be ok. The fire's progress has been stopped, but firefighters remain on the scene putting out hot spots and flare-ups. In the photo above, you can see the trenches dug by dozers that stopped the fire's progression. Fire breaks have also been set up on the ridges surrounding the fire area.

People who were evacuated have been allowed to return to their homes. The air is pretty clear, which I don't understand. I guess the wind blew it off in another direction from us. The elementary school was saved, with the fire being put out at the back fence of the school property. The warehouse where my son-in-law used to store his wine has scorch marks all around the building, right up to the doors, but the building was saved and looks to be undamaged. Thousands of homes were threatened, and only one structure was destroyed. A very effective air and land firefighting strategy and dedicated firefighters are the reason for that. 

The incredible work done by the firefighters, air tanker pilots, Pacific Gas and Electric, and Cal Trans cannot be over-emphasized. Also, so many people in the surrounding communities stepped up and offered to come with trailers to transport livestock out of harm's way. So many kind people offered to take in people's pets when they were evacuated. Mr. Rogers always said "Look for the helpers" and he was right. Thank you helpers.

This was an early start to California's fire season, and experts predict that it could be a very severe year for us. All prayers are gratefully accepted.

Comments

[Nancy B]

Wow Nicole! Thanks for the update! You came within a hair's breadth away from disaster and heartache. I was wondering what had happened. I'm so glad your community didn't suffer any more loss. There are good people in this life if only we would focus on their thoughtful deeds and not the negative drama that gets so much attention.

[Erin]

These fires are so frightening. I'm in Oregon, and we had fires yesterday threatening homes and lives. I'm afraid we have arson here quite often in addition to wildfires, and the results have been devastating.
I'm so happy to hear you are safe.

[Norma]

I'm so glad your community and you are safe. Wildfires are so scary. We lived in the San Bernardino mountains for eighteen years so I know what you're going through. The helpers are wonderful.

[Kerry L]

Glad you are safe Nicole and that your community remains somewhat unscathed! I hope you receive some rain soon! Wonderful that you had so many firefighters and volunteers contributing! Take care!

[Jan]

Thank you for the update. It sounds as if almost everything came through without very much damage. It's heartening to know that community members unselfishly volunteered their help! After a large wildland fire near us many spray-painted plywood signs popped up showing appreciation to all of the helpers. They are truly heroes!

[PamO]

Glad you are safe.
Were you able to save anything in the freezer?

[Sandra]

Glad to hear that the fire was managed without extensive damage. I can’t imagine what it would be like to have to evacuate an area. Praying for lots of rain to ease the threat of fires. Take care.

[CarolE]

I am so glad there wasn't much damage. It is so heartwarming to hear about the community coming together. And we can't thank our fire fighters enough.

[Ina]

these firefighters deserve a lot more from us. it is so dangerous and detrimental to their health. I'm so glad you are all safe. any news on the freezer? fingers crossed for you.

[Diane]

We will certainly pray for all of you!