A fast-moving wildfire in the Tahoe National Forest prompted evacuations in Sierra County Sunday afternoon, authorities said.
According to the US Forest Service, the bear fire was first reported just after 2 p.m. at a location in the woods off Bear Valley Road south of Loyalton and about 25 miles north of Truckee.
It consumed about 40 acres in its first hour, and by 5 p.m. it was officially listed at 197 acres. By 6 p.m., the Forest Service reported that visual estimates showed the fire had grown to 800 hectares.
Smoke from the fire was visible for miles, including at least one report that it was seen from as far away as Reno.
The Sierra County Sheriff’s Office has issued an evacuation order for the western part of the community of Sierra Brooks: “There is an immediate threat to life. This is a legal order to leave now. The area is legally closed to the public and residents are asked to leave immediately.”
This is a report in progress. Check back later for updates.
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