Calaveras Co. wildfire prompts state of emergency, school cancellations

CALAVERAS COUNTY, Calif. (KGO) -- A wildfire burning in Calaveras County prompted school cancellations and a state of emergency Tuesday as firefighters worked to contain the fast-growing blaze.

Officials reported positive developments overnight, saying fire activity decreased and helicopters were able to make water drops on the fire.

The wildfire has burned more than 9,000 acres and destroyed at least two homes. According to Gov. Gavin Newsom's office, 1,400 people are under evacuation orders, while another 1,400 residents have been warned to prepare to leave.

The fire started Monday in Valley Springs, east of Stockton. It is now the second-largest wildfire currently burning in California.

Fire officials reported zero containment as crews continued suppression efforts.

Witness Glenn Meeks described the scene as the fire spread.

"And then we saw it, and it was huge, and we were like, 'Oh, no. That looks like hell'. It was very bright, and you could see fire everywhere," Meeks said.

He also urged residents to follow evacuation directives.

"You've got to take the evacuations seriously, or you may not get out," Meeks said.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

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