Inferno Unleashed: Wildfire Rages at Camp Parks, Sparking Urgent Response in Alameda County

A formidable wildfire erupted Friday afternoon at Camp Parks, a U.S. Army Reserve installation nestled in Dublin, Alameda County, triggering an immediate and aggressive response from multiple fire agencies. The blaze, which began in the dry brushlands of the base, quickly escalated, sending massive plumes of smoke high into the sky, visible for miles across the East Bay.

Authorities were alerted to the fire around 2:30 p.m., with initial reports indicating it started within the training grounds.

The swift-moving flames, fueled by hot temperatures, low humidity, and a challenging terrain, posed an immediate threat to the natural habitat and infrastructure within the military facility. Firefighters from the Alameda County Fire Department, Cal Fire, and the Camp Parks Fire Department, bolstered by mutual aid units, swiftly converged on the scene.

Crews faced a tough battle against the rapidly spreading conflagration.

Ground teams were deployed strategically to establish containment lines, while air support, including helicopters and air tankers, pounded the flames with water and fire retardant to slow its advance. The primary focus remained on preventing the fire from breaching the base perimeter and threatening nearby civilian communities, though no immediate evacuation orders were issued for residential areas.

By early evening, officials reported that the wildfire had scorched an estimated 200 acres.

While containment efforts were ongoing, the rugged landscape and shifting winds presented continuous challenges. Residents in Dublin, Pleasanton, and Livermore were advised to remain vigilant, keep windows and doors closed due to air quality concerns, and avoid the immediate vicinity of the base to allow emergency responders unimpeded access.

The cause of the wildfire remains under investigation, but military training activities or accidental ignitions are often factors in such incidents on base properties.

As the battle against the blaze continued through the night, fire officials emphasized their commitment to bringing the fire under control and safeguarding both the environment and the surrounding communities, urging the public to stay informed through official channels for the latest updates.