Santa Cruz County, Calif. -- Homes were evacuated Wednesday afternoon in the Bonny Doon area after a 50-acre wildfire began threatening nearby buildings. CAL FIRE officials said the fire was first reported just before 3 p.m. just off Martin Road in an area of heavy brush. Fire officials said they expect the fire to grow to as many as 1,000 acres before it's contained.
More than 1,400 residents have been evacuated from the Bonny Doon area. The Red Cross has set up a shelter at San Lorenzo Valley Middle School on the Felton campus. Julie Haff, superintendent of San Lorenzo Valley Unified School District said the cafeteria, gymnasium and administrative offices have been left open for residents fleeing the area."The size has grown considerably," Haff said. "The smoke covers the entire length of the football field at the high school."A Riverview High School graduation that was scheduled to take place this evening has been canceled, school officials said.Red Cross workers said 12 families have arrived at the evacuation site as of 6 p.m.Santa Cruz Animal Services workers are available to assist in evacuating livestock and domesticated animals. People needing assistance can call 831-454-7303 and press 1.The Scotts Valley Animal Shelter will be taking evacuated pets and animals and housing them free of charge until residents can return home.The shelter will remain open until 9 p.m. on Wednesday.More than 175 firefighters are working to battle the blaze.CAL FIRE officials said seven airtankers and more than 30 fire engines were at the blaze trying to defend nearby homes.This is the second major wildfire in Santa Cruz County in less than three weeks.The Summit Fire destroyed more than 30 homes and scorched more than 4,200 acres along Summit Road near Mt. Madonna over Memorial Day weekend.
Road Closures
Alba at Empire Grade
Empire Grade at UCSC
Felton Empire at Ashley
Smith at Bonny Doon
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