Officials with the Sequoia National Forest, Kern River Ranger District have released updated information on the Erskine Fire.
As of today, the fire is about 35, 711 acres with 0% containment. Expected containment date is June 30.
Cost to date to battle the blaze is estimated at $3 million.
Firefighting efforts on the Erskine Fire continue as reduced wind speeds allow for better access to the fire line. Primary focus of resources will be the east and south east portions of the fire in the Kelso Valley area. Air operations on this incident have been very successful as the fire has moved into sparser concentrations of vegetation. However hot weather and low relative humidities continue to challenge firefighters.
A damage assessment team has arrived at the incident and is currently involved in damage assessment to homes destroyed as well as those damaged by the fire. Current numbers of destroyed structures are: 150 ; Damage structures: 75
Two fatalities have been confirmed. For additional information contact Kern County Sheriffs department.
The total number of personnel assigned to the incident stands at 1139 with additional resources on the way.
A public meeting is scheduled this evening at 6:00 P.M. Woodrow Wallace Elementary, 3240 Erskine Creek Road in Lake Isabella.
Additional Precautionary Evacuations:
Landers Meadow and Claraville area. This includes the area along Piute Mountain road between Kelso Valley road and Saddle Springs road.
Recommended Evacuations:
Bella Vista, South fork, Yankee canyon, Weldon, South Lake, Squirrel valley, Lakeland estates Onyx and Mountain Mesa.
Road Closures:
HWY 178 closed at intersection of HWY155 and Sierra Highway.
UPDATE 9:23PM: Fire is at 36, 810 acres, 10% contained.
