by California Central Valley – Multiple wildfires, collectively known as the TCU September Lightning Complex fires, are actively burning across three counties in California’s Central Valley, forcing evacuation orders and causing significant destruction. Over 9,300 acres have been scorched as firefighters battle the blazes ignited by recent lightning storms.
The most severe fires include the 6-5 Fire in Tuolumne County, the 2-2 Fire in Stanislaus County, and the 2-7 Fire in Calaveras County. Despite the rapid spread and high acreage, no injuries have been reported to date.
A Closer Look at the Devastating Fires
Cal Fire’s Tuolumne-Calaveras Unit identified ten fires collectively making up the TCU September Lightning Complex. Among them, three major fires have commanded attention due to their size and impact:
- 6-5 Fire: Burning over 4,000 acres north of Don Pedro Reservoir with zero containment reported as of 4 p.m. The fire severely affected the historic Chinese Camp area, including damage to the Chinese Camp Cemetery and burned structures, according to Tuolumne County District 5 Supervisor Jaron Brandon.
- 2-2 Fire: Reported just after 6 a.m. near Highway 4 and Dunton Road, west of Copperopolis, Calaveras County. It has consumed more than 3,400 acres and remains uncontrolled.
- 2-7 Fire: Broke out near the Vallecito area off Highway 4, burning approximately 585 acres. While it has yet to be contained, there have been no disruptions to Highway 4 traffic.
Other notable fires include the 2-8 Fire (about 910 acres) and the 2-3 Fire (20 acres near Copperopolis), among several smaller blazes ranging from 2 to 40 acres. All fires were reportedly lightning-induced during recent storms sweeping the Central Valley and Bay Area.
Evacuation Orders and Road Closures Shape Response Efforts
Authorities have issued several mandatory evacuation orders and warnings to ensure public safety:
- 6-5 Fire: Mandatory evacuation for the north end of Don Pedro Reservoir up to Chinese Camp, an area where Highway 49 and Highway 108 intersect. The Sonora Senior Center serves as an evacuation shelter, while the Chicken Rancho Casino Resort in Jamestown offers complimentary overnight stays to evacuees with valid IDs. Additionally, Highway 120 and Highway 108 (Yosemite Junction) remain closed indefinitely due to fire hazards.
- 2-7 Fire: Mandatory evacuations are in effect for zones CCU-133-B, CCU-134, CCU-134-C, CCU-134-D, and CCU-134-E, with warnings issued for adjacent zones. Bret Harte High School in Angels Camp is operating as an evacuation shelter.
- 2-2 Fire: Prompted a temporary closure of Highway 4 between Escalon Bellota Road and Telegraph Road, reopening by 1:30 p.m. Evacuation orders were issued near the Calaveras-Stanislaus county line, specifically for zones CCU-155 and CCU-152-A including the Diamond 20 Ranch Estates. These orders were lifted by 3 p.m.
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Community Impact and Ongoing Firefighting Efforts
The wildfires have **caused significant destruction** in residential areas and impacted critical infrastructure in the Central Valley region. Although no injuries have been reported, the ongoing threat to homes and public lands remains a top concern. Firefighters continue their efforts to contain the fires, but the terrain and weather conditions pose ongoing challenges.
Tuolumne County District 5 Supervisor Jaron Brandon described the damage in Chinese Camp: “There has been a lot of destruction in the area, especially around the historic Chinese Camp.”
The series of lightning-induced wildfires highlight the critical need for vigilant monitoring and swift evacuation protocols in fire-prone areas, especially during peak lightning storm seasons.
For continuous updates on the TCU September Lightning Complex fires, refer to the latest reporter coverage by CBS Sacramento.
What’s Next for Affected Communities?
Authorities urge residents to stay vigilant, adhere to evacuation orders, and monitor official channels for timely information. Recovery and rehabilitation efforts are expected to follow containment, focusing on community support and environmental restoration. Fire officials remain committed to minimizing further damage and protecting lives.
Key facts at a glance:
- More than 9,300 acres burned as part of the TCU September Lightning Complex.
- Major fires: 6-5 Fire (4,000+ acres), 2-2 Fire (3,400+ acres), 2-7 Fire (585 acres).
- Mandatory evacuations and shelter provisions are active across affected counties.
- Multiple highway closures impacting travel, including Yosemite Junction.
- No injuries reported despite extensive property damage.
What do you think about the ongoing TCU September Lightning Complex fires? Have you been affected by wildfires in California’s Central Valley? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below!
