Urgent Alert: Elk Fire Prompts Evacuation Warnings Across Tuolumne County as Blazes Threaten Communities

Tuolumne County is currently under a heightened state of alert as the rapidly developing Elk Fire ignites, prompting immediate evacuation warnings for several communities near Sonora. The blaze, which began on Monday afternoon, is actively being battled by CAL FIRE TCZ (Tuolumne-Calaveras Unit) crews, with significant resources deployed to protect residents and structures.

As of late Monday, the Elk Fire had grown to an estimated 200 acres, with zero percent containment.

Its primary location is in the Cedar Ridge area, situated south of Highway 108, posing a direct threat to the surrounding wildland-urban interface. The fire's aggressive behavior and rapid spread are attributed to dry conditions and prevailing winds, making suppression efforts challenging.

The Tuolumne County Sheriff's Office has issued crucial evacuation warnings for specific zones to ensure residents are prepared for potential mandatory evacuations.

These zones include areas from Longeway Road to Highway 108, encompassing a broad swathe of residential properties. Residents in these areas are strongly advised to remain vigilant, monitor official emergency notifications, and have a 'go bag' ready in case an evacuation order is escalated.

Multiple ground crews and air resources, including helicopters and air tankers, are actively engaged in battling the flames, focusing on containing the perimeter and establishing defensible space around threatened structures.

Road closures are also in effect in the immediate vicinity of the fire to facilitate emergency vehicle access and ensure public safety. Authorities urge the public to avoid the fire area to allow responders unobstructed access.

The safety of residents remains the top priority. Local authorities are continuously assessing the situation and will provide updated information as it becomes available.

Residents are encouraged to register for emergency alerts and stay tuned to official channels, such as the Tuolumne County Sheriff's Office and CAL FIRE TCZ social media pages and websites, for the latest developments and evacuation information.