The massive Caldor Fire near Lake Tahoe is now fully contained at 221,835 acres. Full containment was estimated for October 31.
On Tuesday, October 19th, the South Lake Tahoe City Council voted 5-0 to end the local emergency proclamation due to the fire. The local emergency had been issued on August 26th, and then was ratified by the council five days later.
The fire started on August 14 east of Omo Ranch, south of the community of Grizzly Flats around 6:54 p.m. The cause is under investigation.
Over 1,000 buildings were destroyed in the fire and 81 others were damaged.
Sixteen first responders have been injured, along with two civilians.
"While US 50 from and to Sacramento and US Forest Service lands remain closed, local businesses are ramping back up. City leaders want visitors to know that they are welcome back to enjoy the beauty of Lake Tahoe and the many local businesses they love so much. It is important to remember that this is a slow process and visitors and locals alike are asked to remain patient as businesses re-hire, re-stock, and get back to pre-fire, day-to-day operations. In doing so, we have continued to work closely with our lodging and tourist advocates to ensure when visitors return, their experience is a positive and memorable one. This would not have been possible without the extraordinary work done by CAL FIRE US Forest Service, and other firefighting task forces whose efforts undeniably saved our city.
“In looking forward, I’m grateful that the City and Tahoe Basin were spared from the ravages of the Caldor Fire. We wholeheartedly recognize the value visitors bring to our economy and welcome them back to enjoy our beautiful city,” said City Manager Joe Irvin.
“This has been emotionally draining for weeks over the numerous concerns, but we are resilient, and the countless ways our community has come together to support one another is heartwarming,” said Carol Chaplin, president and CEO of the Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority. “We have so much to be thankful for with the heroic men and women who saved our lives and community. Tragically our neighbors in Echo Lakes, and along the West Slope weren’t as fortunate with hundreds losing their homes. Perhaps the ultimate takeaway is to realize the fragility of our resources and the vulnerability of the places we love.”
South Tahoe Chamber CEO, Duane Wallace welcomes back visitors by saying, "The fresh air, crystal blue waters, scenic mountains and great shops and attractions are ready for you."
"Our businesses are excited to reopen and do what they do best, provide great customer service and contribute to the Tahoe experience. It's been a challenging time, but we are gearing up for an enjoyable fall and looking toward a festive holiday season ahead," said Steve Teshara, Chief Executive Officer of Tahoe Chamber.
On September 1, California Governor Gavin Newsom announced he secured a Presidential Emergency Declaration for Direct Federal Assistance to help with resources for the fire.
Dozens of community centers, hospitals, post offices, libraries, casinos and businesses were closed as crews responded to the Caldor Fire.
Southwest Gas says it's monitoring the situation and as residents repopulate, its technicians will help you turn your gas back on if need be. If you return home and you smell gas, you're urged to leave the area to somewhere safe and call 911 immediately.
The US Forest Service made the decision to close all California National Parks until September 17 due to numerous wildfires and increased danger due to the drought and unprecedented conditions. Any property owners who need to return to their homes that are on Forest Service land need to contact them to figure out whether or not you need a permit to access your property.
A number of casinos and hotels in Reno are offering discounts to evacuees of the Caldor Fire, including Boomtown Casino Hotel, Aloft Hotels Reno, Grand Sierra Resort, The ROW and the Atlantis Casino Resort Spa. Evacuees should bring their ID at check-in.
Interactive map here.
Donation information:
The Nevada Humane Society is asking for donations to support people and pets affected by the Caldor Fire. You can find information on that here.
Food Assistance:
Food resources are available for those evacuating from the Caldor Fire. Many evacuations shelters offer food assistance, but for individuals in need not staying at shelters, additional resources are available.
