MEDIA RELEASE 2 - PATTISON COMPLEX FIRE

San Andreas – Evacuations on the Pattison Complex Fire have been lifted for all the effected communities. The Pattison Complex Fire which was first reported at 1:40 p.m. on Friday remains at 20% contained. That containment is expected to increase with the completion of a reconnaissance and mapping flight. The fire has burned 2,737 acres and destroyed eleven (11) homes, one of which was under construction, numerous outbuildings, vehicles, and equipment. The fire was pushed quickly by strong winds, which caused the fire to move rapidly through the vegetation. A wind shift late last night pushed the fire in a southwesterly direction. Quick action by firefighters stopped the fire at Olive Orchard Road. At the height of the fire approximately 3,000 people were evacuated from their homes. California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection Command Team 6 assumed command of the fire at 8:00 a.m. this morning. While active fire activity has been greatly reduced the firefighters are concerned because of the potential of windy conditions, high temperatures, and low humidity. The Red Cross will be closing the evacuation center at Calaveras High School and consolidating with the Valley Springs Elementary evacuation center. Fire and County officials want to thank the public for their quick response in evacuating their homes in the face of the fast moving flames.