Wildfires from lightning strikes dot Fresno County foothills. Evacuations, highway closed

Jim Guy
·2 min read

The Lightning Complex of wildfires burning east of the Sanger area consumed more than 5,000 acres by early Wednesday afternoon, as Fresno County fire and law enforcement officials warned residents in rural areas to prepare for possible evacuations.

An estimated 1,000 lightning strikes struck the foothills during a thunderstorm Monday, sparking multiple fires in the area. One of the blazes that erupted near Bear Mountain also damaged communications transmitters.

Fresno County Fire Chief Dustin Hail also cautioned that some stumps struck by lightning during the storm may still be smoldering, and could also erupt into blazes.

The Lightning Complex fires includes the Flash Fire, near Kings Canyon and Cove Road, where 1,500 acres burned and is 15 percent contained; the Bolt Fire, near Palomino and Elwood Road near Wonder Valley, where 3,200 acres have burned and is 10 percent contained; and the Hog Fire, on Watts Valley Road, where 266 acres have burned, with no containment.

Firefighters say wind is driving the fires, causing “significant runs” of flames.

At a midday news conference, Fresno County Sheriff John Zanoni urged residents to watch out for fire equipment and to be prepared to leave at a moments notice if they receive notice.

“If you choose not to leave, that is your choice,” he said.

Residents can sign up to receive fire alerts at member.everbridge.net.

Evacuation orders already issued:

▪ Zones K73, K75, K77 South of Elwood Road for the Flash Fire. Highway 180 is closed from Cove to Dunlap Road.

▪ Zones K73, K75, K77 South of Elwood Road for the Bolt Fire.

The Red Cross has set up an evacuation center at Reedley College, 995 N. Reed Avenue. Volunteers are providing shelter, water and meals for residents and small pets.

The Fresno Fairgrounds at 1120 South Chance is accepting large animals.

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