SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, CALIF., October 14, 2016 – The Emerald Fire was reported at 1:33 am on October 14, 2016. It has burned approx. 250 acres in timber on National Forest System and California State lands at Emerald Bay and Cascade Lake. Very strong winds ahead of the incoming storm system have been fanning the fire in different directions resulting in dangerous rates of spread. Rain has been falling in the area.
Unified command has been established with US Forest Service, CalFire, and Lake Valley Fire Department responding. 20 engines, 7 crews, 2 water tenders, and 2 dozers are on site with additional resources on order. Mandatory evacuations are in effect for the Cascade area, Spring Creek Tract, and Cathedral area. Highway 89 is closed from West Way in S. Lake Tahoe to just south of Meeks Bay. An evacuation center has been set up at the S. Lake Tahoe Recreation and Swim Center, 1180 Rufus Allen Blvd. The Red Cross is on site.
Fire information is available by calling 530-647-5218