Editor's note: This post is no longer being updated. Get current updates on active fires burning in Northern California from CapRadio's live blog, or use this guide to track information from local fire agencies.
Updated 8:08 p.m.
The Loyalton Fire in Sierra County is now estimated at 29,828 acres and is 0% contained. As of 7:30 p.m. Sunday, there were mandatory evacuations in portions of Plumas, Lassen, and Sierra counties.
The fire started Friday evening east of the town of Loyalton and southwest of Mount Ina Coolbrith. According to the U.S. Forest Service, the fire behavior is extreme and smoke is visible throughout the Sierra Valley and North Reno.
⚠️We are calling for evacuations for Cold Springs and Bordertown, limited to the west side of US 395. This could expand, and asking all residents in the area to remain vigilant and monitor local news sources. #LoyaltonFire @washoecounty @WashoeSheriff @Tahoe_NF @blmnv
— Truckee Meadows Fire & Rescue (@TMFPD) August 16, 2020
On Saturday, the National Weather Service in Reno issued a tornado warning for Southeastern Lassen County. This may have been the first ever fire tornado warning. Tornado threats have since decreased, but the NWS is warning civilians to stay away from the area.
⚠️We are calling for evacuations for Cold Springs and Bordertown, limited to the west side of US 395. This could expand, and asking all residents in the area to remain vigilant and monitor local news sources. #LoyaltonFire @washoecounty @WashoeSheriff @Tahoe_NF @blmnv
— Truckee Meadows Fire & Rescue (@TMFPD) August 16, 2020
A Red Flag Warning is in effect for much of Northern California through Monday afternoon for thunderstorms and abundant lightning.
#RT @CAL_FIRE: #RedFlagWarning in effect for northern California today until tomorrow afternoon for thunderstorms and abundant lightning. Take time to make sure you and your family are wildfire ready. More tips: https://t.co/xjkd2kevW9 pic.twitter.com/FVJurWDead
— CAL FIRE PIO (@CALFIRE_PIO) August 16, 2020
Western Nevada is also facing a Red Flag Warning for thunderstorms, which may start new fires, with possible lightning and gusty winds up to 50 mph.
A Red Flag Warning is in effect from 9 am to 9 pm today for fast-moving storms capable of creating new fire starts with cloud-to-ground lightning. Gusty outflow winds up to 50 mph are expected. Report new fires to local emergency officials. pic.twitter.com/0rWxXgjZ0I
— NWS Reno (@NWSReno) August 16, 2020
The Elk Fire west of Willows in Glenn County is 727 acres and 40% contained. All evacuations have been lifted.
New Incident: #ElkFire west of Willows in Glenn county is 727 acres and 40% contained. @CALFIRETGU https://t.co/zUKJnjqEIR pic.twitter.com/xaVqrhH8YU
— CAL FIRE (@CAL_FIRE) August 16, 2020