Evacuations Ordered as Inn Fire Near Mono Lake Spreads

Inn Fire Near Mono Lake

News Summary

The Inn Fire near Mono Lake has rapidly expanded to over 1,500 acres. Urgent evacuation orders have been issued for nearby residents, including the community of Mono City. Highway 395 is closed as firefighting efforts continue amid challenging wind conditions. Air support teams are deploying water drops and flame retardant, while structural impacts are being assessed. Residents are advised to seek safety at designated evacuation centers as officials investigate the fire’s cause.

Evacuations Ordered as Inn Fire Near Mono Lake Grows to Over 1,500 Acres

The Inn Fire, which ignited on Thursday, May 22, around 3:30 PM, has rapidly expanded to over 1,500 acres in Mono County, California. Residents and visitors near Mono Lake are facing urgent evacuation orders as the fire continues to spread.

Highway Closures and Evacuation Orders

As the fire rages, Highway 395 has been closed from Lee Vining to Highway 167, and there’s no set date for when it will be reopened. The area has seen swift developments, and evictions have been mandated for Mono City—a small community with about 200 residents—as well as the popular Tioga Lodge resort. If you’re nearby and worried, don’t fret; designated evacuation centers have been set up for those needing a safe haven. You can head to the Bridgeport Memorial Hall at 73 North School Street or the Lee Vining Community Center at 296 Mattly Avenue.

Fire Details and Progress

Wind conditions have added to the intensity and unpredictable nature of the fire, making firefighting efforts challenging. Erratic winds have helped spur its quick spread, and currently, there’s been no containment reported. Thankfully, firefighters have been busy establishing bulldozer lines on the northeastern and eastern borders of the blaze, which will help to create a barrier against the flames.

Air Support for Ground Teams

Around the clock, both ground and air teams are joining forces to combat this ferocious fire. Helicopters are making water drops from both Mono Lake and Lundy Lake to help extinguish the flames, while air tankers are diligently releasing flame retardant to limit further spread. These collective efforts indicate a robust response from various firefighting agencies, including CAL FIRE and the Mono City Volunteer Fire Department.

Structural Impact and Safety Concerns

So far, officials have confirmed the fire has “impacted” at least one structure; thankfully, further details about damages are still being assessed. Power lines have fallen in the area, rendering Highway 395 hazardous. The safe removal of these downed lines is a top priority before the road can safely reopen.

Looking Ahead

The fire is mainly consuming sagebrush and is currently spreading in a northern direction toward Mono City. With everything that’s transpired so far, the exact cause of the fire remains under investigation; officials are yet to reveal any information about what sparked the flames.

Final Thoughts

As the situation evolves, everyone affected is urged to stay tuned for updates and adhere to local safety advisories. If you or someone you know is in the area, please prioritize safety and reach out to the established evacuation centers if needed. Thoughts are with the brave firefighting teams working around the clock to tackle this challenging and dangerous situation.