As of last night, the following were the latest updates on the 5 fires still burning in Santa Cruz county, including the 2 that led to people being evacuated:
- China Grade Fire– The fire burning near China Grade Road and Foxglove Lane is 20 acres and 100% contained.
- Freedom Fire: The fire is 40 acres and 20% contained, according to Cal Fire. About 100 homes have been evacuated from portions of Nunes Road, Gillette Road, Willow Heights, Ben’s Way and Halton Road.
- Panther Ridge Fire– The fire (which is burning about half-way between Boulder Creek and Highway 35….off of Highway 9) is about 10 to 12 acres and 55% contained. About 20 homes have been evacuated on Stapp and Panther RIdge Roads.
- Fanning Fire– The fire has burned nearly 19 acres on Fanning Grade Road and is 95% contained.
- Empire Fire– The fire on Alba Road at Empire Grade is about 6 acres and 0% contained, with no structures are currently threatened.
An Evacuation Center was set up yesterday at Corralitos Community Church at 26 Browns Valley Road.
Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s deputies are patrolling the evacuated areas.
