Community
Tuesday Follow-up
October, 30, 2007, 10:13
We returned home on Sunday afternoon. The house and pets were doing well, but jittery. They had just about exhausted their supply of food and water (and we had left quite a bit for them). When we finally got over our adrenaline, the smell inside the house was of serious smoke and we tried to air out the house. There were burnt branches and twigs on the deck and in the yard. The ash layer was not as bad as 2003. We had to dispose of our fridge and freezer contents and are currently restocking.
Interestingly enough, as we drive around our mountain area, this year's autumn colors are vibrant, almost midwest-like. We have not visited the burned areas to see anything, but I vividly remember the destruction of 2003. Over 500 homes up here have either burned or were damaged by these fires. Many of our friends and colleagues lost their homes. Our hearts and thoughts go out to them. We do not have school until further notice. Rose and I visited Rim High yesterday, the Incident Command was still there in full capacity.
We are still having breathing problems staying here. We will purchase some air purifiers this afternoon. Sean's Jeep has radiator troubles, which is affecting his transportation for school and work. Justin will be returning home for the weekend. He has mid-terms this week at CSUF.
I do not know if the phrase of "getting back to normal" is appropriate within our outlook. However, we are doing the best we can on a daily level. I posted some family Galleries to gather some smiles.
One last shout-out:
The staff at the place we stayed in Palm Springs, called the The Adriatic Villa, were wonderful toward us, from the moment we checked in. It was an interesting and quiet place, but when we asked for assistance and adjustments, they responded with a smile. They graciously took care of us and asked us how things were on a daily level, so we thank them wholeheartedly.
And thank you to EVERYONE for their thoughts and prayers throughout this whole ordeal. We do not take any of that for granted in life. Back in 2003, when I was furiously keeping the blogs by my father-in-law's house, I found a lot of information for people's homes and such. I was overwhelmed with the "thank-you's" and attention. This year, friends on this mountain unselfishly watched out for our home. The first few nights were not looking good at all for Twin Peaks and that was direct from some fire officials. We sincerely thank them as well.
Here are some updated articles from ROTW.net:
Grass Valley Fire 100 Percent Contained, Slide Fire 92 Percent
Running Springs, Enchanted Forest, Smiley Park Damaged Or Destroyed Structures...
Many Mountain Residents Scheduled To Return Home Over Next Three Days
Interestingly enough, as we drive around our mountain area, this year's autumn colors are vibrant, almost midwest-like. We have not visited the burned areas to see anything, but I vividly remember the destruction of 2003. Over 500 homes up here have either burned or were damaged by these fires. Many of our friends and colleagues lost their homes. Our hearts and thoughts go out to them. We do not have school until further notice. Rose and I visited Rim High yesterday, the Incident Command was still there in full capacity.
We are still having breathing problems staying here. We will purchase some air purifiers this afternoon. Sean's Jeep has radiator troubles, which is affecting his transportation for school and work. Justin will be returning home for the weekend. He has mid-terms this week at CSUF.
I do not know if the phrase of "getting back to normal" is appropriate within our outlook. However, we are doing the best we can on a daily level. I posted some family Galleries to gather some smiles.
One last shout-out:
The staff at the place we stayed in Palm Springs, called the The Adriatic Villa, were wonderful toward us, from the moment we checked in. It was an interesting and quiet place, but when we asked for assistance and adjustments, they responded with a smile. They graciously took care of us and asked us how things were on a daily level, so we thank them wholeheartedly.
And thank you to EVERYONE for their thoughts and prayers throughout this whole ordeal. We do not take any of that for granted in life. Back in 2003, when I was furiously keeping the blogs by my father-in-law's house, I found a lot of information for people's homes and such. I was overwhelmed with the "thank-you's" and attention. This year, friends on this mountain unselfishly watched out for our home. The first few nights were not looking good at all for Twin Peaks and that was direct from some fire officials. We sincerely thank them as well.
Here are some updated articles from ROTW.net:
Grass Valley Fire 100 Percent Contained, Slide Fire 92 Percent
Running Springs, Enchanted Forest, Smiley Park Damaged Or Destroyed Structures...
Many Mountain Residents Scheduled To Return Home Over Next Three Days
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Sunday... Going Home
October, 28, 2007, 11:00
From InciWeb.org:
he mandatory evacuation order for the communities of Twin Peaks, Rim Forest, Blue Jay, Agua Fria, Deer Lodge Park, Sky Forest, Cedar Glen and the majority of Lake Arrowhead will be reduced to voluntary evacuation effective 12:00 p.m. on October 28, 2007. The area will be open to residents and re-entry passes will not be issued and are not required. The areas that suffered extensive fire damage will remain under a mandatory evacuation area with road closures at the following locations: • Brentwood Drive @ Sonoma Drive • San Benito Drive @ Pinehurst Drive • Brentwood Drive @ Pinehurst Drive • Brentwood Drive @ Oakmont Drive • Brentwood Drive @ Grass Valley Drive Other areas under a mandatory evacuation remain in effect until further notice (Running Springs, Arrow Bear and Green Valley Lake). Residents returning to their homes should be aware of the following: All of the affected areas suffered power outages for some period of time during the fire. Use caution before eating food in your refrigerator or freezer. Food can be spoiled due to power outages. Spoiled food must be disposed of safely and properly. Pick up a food disposal bag, mask, gloves and more information at all Fire Stations. A light amount of smoke coming from the fire lines is to be expected. Within Lake Arrowhead, there will still be fire patrols monitoring both fire perimeters. Please call the San Bernardino County Fire Information Line at (909) 355-8800 for updated information.
he mandatory evacuation order for the communities of Twin Peaks, Rim Forest, Blue Jay, Agua Fria, Deer Lodge Park, Sky Forest, Cedar Glen and the majority of Lake Arrowhead will be reduced to voluntary evacuation effective 12:00 p.m. on October 28, 2007. The area will be open to residents and re-entry passes will not be issued and are not required. The areas that suffered extensive fire damage will remain under a mandatory evacuation area with road closures at the following locations: • Brentwood Drive @ Sonoma Drive • San Benito Drive @ Pinehurst Drive • Brentwood Drive @ Pinehurst Drive • Brentwood Drive @ Oakmont Drive • Brentwood Drive @ Grass Valley Drive Other areas under a mandatory evacuation remain in effect until further notice (Running Springs, Arrow Bear and Green Valley Lake). Residents returning to their homes should be aware of the following: All of the affected areas suffered power outages for some period of time during the fire. Use caution before eating food in your refrigerator or freezer. Food can be spoiled due to power outages. Spoiled food must be disposed of safely and properly. Pick up a food disposal bag, mask, gloves and more information at all Fire Stations. A light amount of smoke coming from the fire lines is to be expected. Within Lake Arrowhead, there will still be fire patrols monitoring both fire perimeters. Please call the San Bernardino County Fire Information Line at (909) 355-8800 for updated information.
Saturday...
October, 27, 2007, 21:01
We are still in Palm Springs wondering if Twin Peaks residents will be let up today, but it does not look like it. We might get back up on Monday. I guess I will be playing with Apple's Leopard some more and then take Allie out to the "Living Desert" for a Halloween evening. Yesterday, we ran around in the Rialto, Fontana, Redlands, and San Bernardino area. It was VERY smokey and full of traffic everywhere. Sean's Jeep overheated (bad thermostat) and other sorts of fun things we took care of.
We went to Howl-O-Ween at The Living Desert for Allie this evening. She loved the Hay-Maze and ran away from us four times. Playing basketball is easier.
From ROTW.net:
9:00pm: Fire crews made excellent progress today. The Grass Valley Fire is 95% contained as of 8:00pm Saturday. Within the fire perimeter, moderate fire behavior was observed. Night shift crews will continue mopping up 700' into the interior of the fire from control lines, and 100% around structures.
The Slide Fire has been revised to 12,789 acres. The reduction is due to better mapping. Containment is at 65%. Improved weather conditions played an important role in allowing firefighters to make good progress on improving fire line. Low intensity surface fires occurred through the day. Crews are continuing structural protection, mop-up and patrol in residential areas. Structure protection is in place for Lake Arrowhead Scout Camps.
All roadways leading into the San Bernardino Mountains are still closed to up-bound, non-emergency traffic; including Highway 18 west of Big Bear Dam, Hwy 330, Hwy 138 at Hwy 173 and Hwy 18 at Waterman Ave. Hwy 38 and the backside of Hwy 18 from Lucerne Valley are the open access points. Forest Closure Orders continue to be in effect.
9:38am: Despite not smelling like smoke, there is considerable particulate matter in the air near LAE visible at night by the simple beam of a flashlight - not small stuff either but big flakes swirling around. Highly recommend anyone up here or coming up wear a mask of decent quality. HEPA filter is best.
9:05am: Air to Air (over Grass): They're getting some crews together to get in there, what I want you to do is cool down that drainage area, we have a tanker coming, but he (Div C) wants it OUT. 2 helicopters to Arrowhead for drops.
8:29am: Air attack over Grass: The smoke is right where your wing tip is now; it's the biggest first concentration of smoke, I think you can see that. I'll fly the ridgeline from the smoke on top to your first big smoke, that will show you where to go.
8:00am: There is a hot spot here at Fairway; near Grandview Elementary, west of Walnut Hills. It's one of two spots in the area, but it's starting to build. Get a Forest Service unit out here. It's still about a thousand feet from any of the structures.
From Others: Mark Malone told me that applying online for FEMA assistance is MUCH faster than doing it at a evacuation center. Rose and I tried to fill out FEMA and Employment Assistance online applications. What a nightmare, especially the Disaster Unemployment Assistance site.
We went to Howl-O-Ween at The Living Desert for Allie this evening. She loved the Hay-Maze and ran away from us four times. Playing basketball is easier.
From ROTW.net:
9:00pm: Fire crews made excellent progress today. The Grass Valley Fire is 95% contained as of 8:00pm Saturday. Within the fire perimeter, moderate fire behavior was observed. Night shift crews will continue mopping up 700' into the interior of the fire from control lines, and 100% around structures.
The Slide Fire has been revised to 12,789 acres. The reduction is due to better mapping. Containment is at 65%. Improved weather conditions played an important role in allowing firefighters to make good progress on improving fire line. Low intensity surface fires occurred through the day. Crews are continuing structural protection, mop-up and patrol in residential areas. Structure protection is in place for Lake Arrowhead Scout Camps.
All roadways leading into the San Bernardino Mountains are still closed to up-bound, non-emergency traffic; including Highway 18 west of Big Bear Dam, Hwy 330, Hwy 138 at Hwy 173 and Hwy 18 at Waterman Ave. Hwy 38 and the backside of Hwy 18 from Lucerne Valley are the open access points. Forest Closure Orders continue to be in effect.
9:38am: Despite not smelling like smoke, there is considerable particulate matter in the air near LAE visible at night by the simple beam of a flashlight - not small stuff either but big flakes swirling around. Highly recommend anyone up here or coming up wear a mask of decent quality. HEPA filter is best.
9:05am: Air to Air (over Grass): They're getting some crews together to get in there, what I want you to do is cool down that drainage area, we have a tanker coming, but he (Div C) wants it OUT. 2 helicopters to Arrowhead for drops.
8:29am: Air attack over Grass: The smoke is right where your wing tip is now; it's the biggest first concentration of smoke, I think you can see that. I'll fly the ridgeline from the smoke on top to your first big smoke, that will show you where to go.
8:00am: There is a hot spot here at Fairway; near Grandview Elementary, west of Walnut Hills. It's one of two spots in the area, but it's starting to build. Get a Forest Service unit out here. It's still about a thousand feet from any of the structures.
From Others: Mark Malone told me that applying online for FEMA assistance is MUCH faster than doing it at a evacuation center. Rose and I tried to fill out FEMA and Employment Assistance online applications. What a nightmare, especially the Disaster Unemployment Assistance site.
Links and Resources for the Fire
October, 26, 2007, 10:03
Again, many of you know a lot of these places to get information; however, I am posting them for those who do not. If you know more I should list, PLEASE let me know.
Rim of the World dot Net-- www.rimoftheworld.net
ROTW Incident Scanner for both Fires-- http://old.rimoftheworld.net/incidents/3623
FIREupdate-- www.fireupdate.com
FIREupdate's Unofficial list of Inland Empire Burn Reports-- http://www.fireupdate.com/2007/2007IEburn.htm
InciWeb.org-- http://www.inciweb.org
Big Bear Live Scanner-- http://www.bigbearscanner.com/
Grass Valley Hotline-- (909) 383-5688
SoCalMountains-- http://www.socalmountains.com/
Here is the correct number for Animal Control: 1-800-472-5609
FEMA - 800-621-FEMA (you can apply online as well)
Red Cross has a number to call for financial aid. 1-800-733-2767
Riverside News for the Inland Empire-- www.instantriverside.com
Mountain Area Safety Task Force (MAST) at 909-355-8800
USFS Information Line at 909-881-6949
Fire Maps: http://webpages.charter.net/pollinh/
Disaster Unemployment Assistance
Rim of the World dot Net-- www.rimoftheworld.net
ROTW Incident Scanner for both Fires-- http://old.rimoftheworld.net/incidents/3623
FIREupdate-- www.fireupdate.com
FIREupdate's Unofficial list of Inland Empire Burn Reports-- http://www.fireupdate.com/2007/2007IEburn.htm
InciWeb.org-- http://www.inciweb.org
Big Bear Live Scanner-- http://www.bigbearscanner.com/
Grass Valley Hotline-- (909) 383-5688
SoCalMountains-- http://www.socalmountains.com/
Here is the correct number for Animal Control: 1-800-472-5609
FEMA - 800-621-FEMA (you can apply online as well)
Red Cross has a number to call for financial aid. 1-800-733-2767
Riverside News for the Inland Empire-- www.instantriverside.com
Mountain Area Safety Task Force (MAST) at 909-355-8800
USFS Information Line at 909-881-6949
Fire Maps: http://webpages.charter.net/pollinh/
Disaster Unemployment Assistance
Thursday Evening
October, 25, 2007, 20:27
We are back and have internet access for the evening. We are having small, 99 cent pizzas for dinner. Yum.
From InciWeb.org @ 7:00pm: 70% containment on the Grass Valley Fire!
From FIREupdate.com @ 6:00pm: One of my contacts on the hill just called and reported on the Grass Valley Fire. It's been pretty quiet on the Twin Peaks side of things but today after 3:00 PM they had some flare ups in the Miller Canyon area. They've been moving things around with a few bulldozers down there but they had 8-10 MPH winds coming up the canyon from the Silverwood area. Right now the area is being watched and guarded. All the roads into Crestline are still blocked off. There is a plan to open the area back up being tossed around. Stay tuned for more information.
Slide Fire 15 % Contained! Firefighters battling the Slide Fire near Running Springs made slow but steady progress today and now have the 11,675-acre blaze 15 percent contained, authorities said. The Slide Fire started near Green Valley Lake and so far has destroyed 200 homes and three outbuildings, fire officials said. So far, it has cost $3 million to fight.
From ROTW.net:
7:34pm: Scanner reports indicate that there is a possible spot fire near 535 Dart Canyon Road. Firefighters from Crest Forest Fire District are enroute to the location. There are reports that firefighters might be doing a backfiring operation in the area. This might be what the 9-1-1 caller was seeing.
8:01pm: Firefighters have made significant progress with both mountain fires. At 8 PM, the Grass Fire was reported to be 70% contained. "Firefighters continue to make good progress on line construction in the Miller Canyon drainage as well as mop up in the northern and eastern flanks of the fire," said fire officials. "Damage assessment teams were able to enter the area yesterday, reporting no additional structures burned, details to be released soon. Large scale evacuations and road closures remain in effect surrounding the entire perimeter of the fire area." Containment has begun on the Slide Fire with 15% of the 11,675 acre fire contained. "Firefighters report moderate fire intensity surface fire, backing, occasional torching, and short-range spotting," said fire officials. "Additional structures were reported lost yesterday, with structure protection continuing along Highway 18 and Green Valley. Damage assessment teams are starting to work in the area to provide details on structures destroyed, with dangerous access due to continued fire activity. Fire perimeter containment efforts slow due to rough terrain, heavy vegetation and high density residential properties intermixed with bug killed timber.
From InciWeb.org @ 7:00pm: 70% containment on the Grass Valley Fire!
From FIREupdate.com @ 6:00pm: One of my contacts on the hill just called and reported on the Grass Valley Fire. It's been pretty quiet on the Twin Peaks side of things but today after 3:00 PM they had some flare ups in the Miller Canyon area. They've been moving things around with a few bulldozers down there but they had 8-10 MPH winds coming up the canyon from the Silverwood area. Right now the area is being watched and guarded. All the roads into Crestline are still blocked off. There is a plan to open the area back up being tossed around. Stay tuned for more information.
Slide Fire 15 % Contained! Firefighters battling the Slide Fire near Running Springs made slow but steady progress today and now have the 11,675-acre blaze 15 percent contained, authorities said. The Slide Fire started near Green Valley Lake and so far has destroyed 200 homes and three outbuildings, fire officials said. So far, it has cost $3 million to fight.
From ROTW.net:
7:34pm: Scanner reports indicate that there is a possible spot fire near 535 Dart Canyon Road. Firefighters from Crest Forest Fire District are enroute to the location. There are reports that firefighters might be doing a backfiring operation in the area. This might be what the 9-1-1 caller was seeing.
8:01pm: Firefighters have made significant progress with both mountain fires. At 8 PM, the Grass Fire was reported to be 70% contained. "Firefighters continue to make good progress on line construction in the Miller Canyon drainage as well as mop up in the northern and eastern flanks of the fire," said fire officials. "Damage assessment teams were able to enter the area yesterday, reporting no additional structures burned, details to be released soon. Large scale evacuations and road closures remain in effect surrounding the entire perimeter of the fire area." Containment has begun on the Slide Fire with 15% of the 11,675 acre fire contained. "Firefighters report moderate fire intensity surface fire, backing, occasional torching, and short-range spotting," said fire officials. "Additional structures were reported lost yesterday, with structure protection continuing along Highway 18 and Green Valley. Damage assessment teams are starting to work in the area to provide details on structures destroyed, with dangerous access due to continued fire activity. Fire perimeter containment efforts slow due to rough terrain, heavy vegetation and high density residential properties intermixed with bug killed timber.
Thursday's Activities
October, 25, 2007, 19:04
I finally got some internet working this morning in our mini-condo room for about 30 minutes, then it died again. This is SO frustrating. It is not very reliable and Rose will have to use my computer later to do some work at the front desk area. (Then there was no hot water in the shower.) This morning, we are handling a lot of financial business. Sean went to the evacuation center last night since he had to see if he would be called in to work early this morning, but won't work until 4:30pm - midnight. Allie is calmer this morning watching her Nickelodeon/Disney programs on TV (she was excited because it has been awhile). We will try to do some activities with her today outside of this room and internet. Maybe some miniature golf.
I posted some resources on the teachers' blog set up by our school district. I know of a few teachers that have lost their homes. Our hearts go out to them.
Quite a few more online resources have continue to pop up, which is very good. This same thing happened in 2003 during the Old Fire. The biggest disappointment over the last 60 hours or so is toward big media. They forget that the Running Springs area is still having major issues, but the TV people seem like everything is so much better now. I also find it stupid how the precedent that Chuck Henry set in 2003, where he almost lost his life in SkyForest is now being mimicked by other reporters. What I mean by that is how media stands in the way of firefighters on live TV just to get the flames to lick their equipment. Furthermore, how is it ok to make a big deal out of people not evacuating as instructed, and yet keep the same people on TV for interviews? At this stage of circumstances, people need REAL information. Internet will eventually take over big media, and soon.
The Grass Valley fire is 40% contained (last night's stats), and the Slide fire is finally calming down a little. The weather in the mountain areas was in the 40's last night. The marine layer has returned a little in SoCal. Hopefully, significant progress is continued today.
We are back and have internet access for the evening.
From Other Sources:
Here are pics of upper Rose Lane and a heli in the lake, thanks to J.Jackson from Wednesday afternoon.
I posted some resources on the teachers' blog set up by our school district. I know of a few teachers that have lost their homes. Our hearts go out to them.
Quite a few more online resources have continue to pop up, which is very good. This same thing happened in 2003 during the Old Fire. The biggest disappointment over the last 60 hours or so is toward big media. They forget that the Running Springs area is still having major issues, but the TV people seem like everything is so much better now. I also find it stupid how the precedent that Chuck Henry set in 2003, where he almost lost his life in SkyForest is now being mimicked by other reporters. What I mean by that is how media stands in the way of firefighters on live TV just to get the flames to lick their equipment. Furthermore, how is it ok to make a big deal out of people not evacuating as instructed, and yet keep the same people on TV for interviews? At this stage of circumstances, people need REAL information. Internet will eventually take over big media, and soon.
The Grass Valley fire is 40% contained (last night's stats), and the Slide fire is finally calming down a little. The weather in the mountain areas was in the 40's last night. The marine layer has returned a little in SoCal. Hopefully, significant progress is continued today.
We are back and have internet access for the evening.
From Other Sources:
Here are pics of upper Rose Lane and a heli in the lake, thanks to J.Jackson from Wednesday afternoon.
Wednesday Morning & Afternoon
October, 24, 2007, 13:34
From ROTW.net (scanner monitors and site posts):
• "Rim of the World schools will continue to be closed through Friday, October 26th. Schools will reopen once it is safe again for public travel and access. Continue to monitor the media for more information." Ron Peavy, Interim Superintendent - Rim of the World Unified School District.
• 1:27pm: Despite poor visibility, firefighters are making good progress on the Slide and Grass Fires today. Poor visiblity has prevented the fixed wing aircraft from making drops, but 14 helicopters are working both the Slide and Grass Fires along with over a thousand fire personnel. The fire has continued to burn toward Big Bear with news helicopters placing it 2 miles to the west of the Big Bear Dam. However, its progress has slowed as it has moved into the burn area for the Butler Fires, and firefighters are optimistic about the eastward progress halting.
Chief Michael Sherman, from the Crest Forest Fire District, stated that the department is "cautiously optimistic" about the progress of the firefighting in the district communities. Crest Forest Fire District serves Crestline, Cedarpines Park, Valley of Enchantment, Rim Forest and Twin Peaks. He stated that the district "has not suffered any structural losses at this time."
• 1:23pm: "We're on Sonoma and Brentwood; looks like we're going to be on Sonoma for a while (mop up?); send someone over here with supplies."
• 11:54am: Phone interview with USFS PIO John Miller - Person was arrested in VOE last night for arson, he was observed in the act and was followed by chopper to a house and arrested by SO. He is now named as a person of interest in the other fires according to CHP PIO Fernandez.
• 12:04pm: {via email} We are in Twin Peaks 189/Bear Springs Area. If anyone needs their pets that where left behind the can contact us. sealtightconst@hotmail.com or 909-499-0422 leave contact info, address phone # and we will gladly contact you and arange to check on them/feed them. After contact with County Animal Control Program Managers, the Crestline Chamber of Commerce is referring all mountain residents to the Toll-Free Hotline 1-800-472-5609. Organized resources are availble for both household pets as well as large animals such as horses.
• 11:38am: "I just got word from my daughter in law, an evacuee from Blue Jay, that all the houses on Sandalwood, Teakwood and Ironwood are okay at this time. This was confirmed by a deputy who did a drive by."
11:03pm: {via email} "We just went personally to see if our spec home at 1084 Brentwood survived. It did. Here are addresses we can confirm: 1141 Brentwood is okay, 1110 Brentwood burned, 1114 Brentwood burned, 1157 Brentwood is okay, 1036 Sandalwood (Scharer home) is okay, 1106 Sandalwood (Franks home) is okay. 1156 Grass Valley Road is okay (as are all the homes we saw around that). The road was blocked off at Brentwood and Grass Valley Road and we don't know about Brentwood from there on."
• According to John Miller of the US Forest Service, the westward advance of the Slide Fire stalled overnight. Flames got as far west as Heaps Peak between the waste transfer station and the radio towers. The front to the south of Green Valley Lake has moved toward Highway 18 and Snow Valley. It was less than 1/4 mile from the highway.
• In the Running Springs area, catastrophic fire activity burned through Fredalba and Smiley Park with widespread losses. The fire burned along the southern edge of Running Springs, eastward, to the Rimwood Ranch area. In Green Valley Lake, only 80 of the nearly 1,200 homes were destroyed, according to news reports.
• Damage assessment teams have begun the difficult task of surveying property and intrastructure damage. They began in the Green Valley Lake area and will work their way westward into Arrowbear Lake and the Running Springs area. Maps will be available as soon as the survey is complete. A briefing is being planned at the evacuation center at the Orange Show Fairgrounds in San Bernardino this afternoon. We will update the site when a time has been determined.
• With an evergrowing air force of fixed wing, rotary wing, and jet tankers, fire officials are gearing up for a massive assault. Miller stated that super scooper aircraft and other resources are being moved into California from other states and Canada.
From Other Sources:
• Here is a link of Twin Peaks/Lake Arrowhead area on Google Maps. LINK
• 11:43am: From FireUpdate.com-- In response to a request from state and federal officials, NASA today dispatched an aircraft equipped with sophisticated infrared imaging equipment to help firefighters battling the Southern California wildfires. The "Ikhana," an unmanned aircraft, was launched at Edwards Air Force Base at 8:45 a.m., said Beth Hagenauer of the NASA’s Dryden Flight Research Center. The aircraft is carrying a thermal infrared imaging system that can peer through heavy smoke and darkness to see hot spots, flames and temperature differences, Hagenauer said. Images are processed onboard, and then transmitted in "near real time" to help incident commanders allocate firefighting resources. The remote-controlled aircraft is expected to fly over the major blazes in the Lake Arrowhead/Running Springs area today, and possibly into San Diego County. A second imaging flight may take place tomorrow, officials said.
• 10:15am: Heavy smoke in the Twin Peaks area from an eyewitness.
Tuesday Night
October, 23, 2007, 17:31
I have only an hour or so to catch up on some updates. I still have to feed the family this evening. Most of the online updates and TV coverage have been for the Slide Fire (Running Springs and GVL). Some amazing footage from NBC4 and KCAL/CBS.
From ROTW.net (scanner monitors and site posts):
Here is a picture link showing the Grass Valley Fire perimeter. Here is the correct number for Animal Control: 1-800-472-5609
"Rim of the World schools will continue to be closed through Friday, October 26th. Schools will reopen once it is safe again for public travel and access. Continue to monitor the media for more information." Ron Peavy, Interim Superintendent - Rim of the World Unified School District.
5:30pm Twin Peaks area: Smoldering area in Twin Peaks at 585 Sunset View Road near the baseball field. Confirmed looters last seen on SR189 - Chrysler New Yorker, older model; beige.
Grass Valley Fire: This fire has burned 1,000 acres northwest of Lake Arrowhead. 113 structures have been lost, and more than 1500 homes remain threatened. There are mandatory evaucations for all areas north of Hwy 189 (includes North Bay Dr. and Grass Valley Rd.), North of Lake Arrowhead Dam on Hwy 173, and all of Twin Peaks. Also Crestline, Lake Gregory and Rimforest. Voluntary evacuations remain in effect for th remainder of Lake Arrowhead, Cedar Glen, Valley of Enchantment, and Cedar Pines Park. State Highway 18 is closed from 40th/Waterman to the Big Bear Dam, State Highway 330 is closed at Highland to Hwy 18, State Highway 138 is closed at State Highway 173. Residents may leave via these highways, but will not be allowed back into these areas. Grass Valley Fire Information Line (909) 383-5688.
Slide Fire:This fire has burned 8,500 acres at Green Valley Lake near Running Springs in San Bernardino County. More than 100 homes have burned and 400 continue to be threatened. Mandatory evacuations are in place for Green Valley Lake, Arrow Bear, and Running Springs. All roads into the mountain communities are closed. 17 engines and five water tenders are currently assigned to this fire. Slide Fire Information Line (909) 383-5688.
The Slide and Grass Fires have burned over 10,000 acres of brush and timber, according to CAL Fire. According to a utility employee in the Running Springs area, the fire has damaged homes on the following roads: Deep Creek Drive, Secret Drive, Encina Way, Chicago Drive, Old City Creek Road (from near Highway 330 and up), Knoll View Drive (1 or 2 homes lost), Nob Hill Court (1 home lost), Frebalba Road (homes lost on both sides by the Catholic Church), Circle View Drive, Valley View Drive, Camp Helendade (some structures), and Easy Drive. Many others areas were threatened according to the employee. "The fire is jumping around due to the winds. It looks like a war zone here."
According to John Miller from the US Forest Service, there is now a mandatory evacuation for all communities between Crestline and the Big Bear Dam. Cedarpines Park and Valley of Enchantment are still under a voluntary evacuation. Miller stated that the fire is now hitting Nob Hill. He was not sure if Pali Mountain Camp was damaged. There is active structure protection in Rimwood Ranch. Structures were reported burning at the top of Live Oak Drive and Poplar.
From Other Sources:
5:00pm: Have not heard much in terms of emails, IM's, or calls.
From ROTW.net (scanner monitors and site posts):
Here is a picture link showing the Grass Valley Fire perimeter. Here is the correct number for Animal Control: 1-800-472-5609
"Rim of the World schools will continue to be closed through Friday, October 26th. Schools will reopen once it is safe again for public travel and access. Continue to monitor the media for more information." Ron Peavy, Interim Superintendent - Rim of the World Unified School District.
5:30pm Twin Peaks area: Smoldering area in Twin Peaks at 585 Sunset View Road near the baseball field. Confirmed looters last seen on SR189 - Chrysler New Yorker, older model; beige.
Grass Valley Fire: This fire has burned 1,000 acres northwest of Lake Arrowhead. 113 structures have been lost, and more than 1500 homes remain threatened. There are mandatory evaucations for all areas north of Hwy 189 (includes North Bay Dr. and Grass Valley Rd.), North of Lake Arrowhead Dam on Hwy 173, and all of Twin Peaks. Also Crestline, Lake Gregory and Rimforest. Voluntary evacuations remain in effect for th remainder of Lake Arrowhead, Cedar Glen, Valley of Enchantment, and Cedar Pines Park. State Highway 18 is closed from 40th/Waterman to the Big Bear Dam, State Highway 330 is closed at Highland to Hwy 18, State Highway 138 is closed at State Highway 173. Residents may leave via these highways, but will not be allowed back into these areas. Grass Valley Fire Information Line (909) 383-5688.
Slide Fire:This fire has burned 8,500 acres at Green Valley Lake near Running Springs in San Bernardino County. More than 100 homes have burned and 400 continue to be threatened. Mandatory evacuations are in place for Green Valley Lake, Arrow Bear, and Running Springs. All roads into the mountain communities are closed. 17 engines and five water tenders are currently assigned to this fire. Slide Fire Information Line (909) 383-5688.
The Slide and Grass Fires have burned over 10,000 acres of brush and timber, according to CAL Fire. According to a utility employee in the Running Springs area, the fire has damaged homes on the following roads: Deep Creek Drive, Secret Drive, Encina Way, Chicago Drive, Old City Creek Road (from near Highway 330 and up), Knoll View Drive (1 or 2 homes lost), Nob Hill Court (1 home lost), Frebalba Road (homes lost on both sides by the Catholic Church), Circle View Drive, Valley View Drive, Camp Helendade (some structures), and Easy Drive. Many others areas were threatened according to the employee. "The fire is jumping around due to the winds. It looks like a war zone here."
According to John Miller from the US Forest Service, there is now a mandatory evacuation for all communities between Crestline and the Big Bear Dam. Cedarpines Park and Valley of Enchantment are still under a voluntary evacuation. Miller stated that the fire is now hitting Nob Hill. He was not sure if Pali Mountain Camp was damaged. There is active structure protection in Rimwood Ranch. Structures were reported burning at the top of Live Oak Drive and Poplar.
From Other Sources:
5:00pm: Have not heard much in terms of emails, IM's, or calls.
Tuesday Morning & Afternoon
October, 23, 2007, 13:51
From ROTW.net (scanner monitors and site posts):
Here is a picture link showing the Grass Valley Fire perimeter. Here is the correct number for Animal Control: 1-800-472-5609
"Rim of the World schools will continue to be closed through Friday, October 26th. Schools will reopen once it is safe again for public travel and access. Continue to monitor the media for more information." Ron Peavy, Interim Superintendent - Rim of the World Unified School District
1:51pm: AA said that the fire from Green Valley Lake is running strong making a big push to Arrowhead and he believes it will make it there today. The fires is about 1-1/2 to 1-3/4 miles from Lake Arrowhead; it will bump the old burn, but there is still some fuel in there. South Ops on the phone again want to steal the DC10 due to a power plant being threatened; Let them know that there is a direct threat to the communities of Running Springs and now Lake Arrowhead.
1:17pm: Slide Fire is 1/2 mile from rimwood ranch below; 1-1/2 miles from Station 38 at City Creek; slowly backing towards Fredalba Trail at Smiley Park. RS Boy Scout camp is evacuated.
12:55pm: BRUSH AND STRUCTURES BURNING NOW YOSEMITE AT YELLOWSTONE AREA -- FIRE 97, Big spot over the Lake Arrowhead area, on the north side (Air unit on Slide side reported seeing large column). 50 x 50 spot, controlled (North Shore IC - Yellowstone at 173). Suspicious activity is being investigated at this site.
12:50pm: Running Springs - According to a CHP officer, "most of Fredalba is up in flames." More houses burned than are not - at least 2 dozen on Fredalba - we're not going down any lower because houses are still burning down there; 50 to 60% burned; it's still boiling down in there.
12:31pm: There is still active fire northwest of Running Springs. However, RS is still in danger. Lost house on 31421 Oceanview - cross of Panorama. From ROTW google - Running Springs - "My house is on Luring Pines Dr between Valley View & Wagon Wheel. It is ok, along with the neighborhood around it. My neighbor on Luring Pines Circle has a friend at the gas Co and they went thru the neighborhood a little while ago and all is good." Tanker 910 on final. Whispering Pines area, for the most part, is ok.
12:07pm: Houses on Circle View - everything west of 315?? appears to be good. Check on 31496 Circle View? Unable to get to that area.
11:33am: TV media-- homes being lost on Secret and Encina back side of town of Running Springs.
10:54am: ROTW Google - I spoke with someone who got up into town only briefly, sounds like a good deal of the houses are still standing in Green Valley Lake (a miracle). it sounds like town is however lost.
10:27am: We're going to need some protection up here on Nob Hill (off 18, Running Springs); "We've got a major wall of fire heading towards us!
10:35am: ROTW Google - Sonoma Drive - This is a relay from Scott on Sonoma Dr, who has remained and saved many homes on Sonoma/Del Norte: Sonoma Dr from Brentwood: All up to 875 Sonoma OK, except 710, which is gone. After 875 Sonoma all the way to first connection to Amador - all gone except 975 Sonoma - OK.. All Amador between lower and upper connect to Sonoma - OK. Windward- all gone. Moving down to intersection of Amador and Del Norte and moving down Del Norte: Upper corner house (Amador/Del Norte) gone. Lower corner house (Amador/Del Norte) OK. Going down Del Norte from Amador - all gone to 837 Del Norte. 837 badly damaged. 835, 815 OK Houses below 815 to and including 785 gone EXCEPT 775. Sutter - OK Looking at Placer from this area - 1 home on left gone. No further info. Will update when I hear back from Sonoma Scott Our house at 935 Sonoma is a goner, as well as surrounding homes."
10:01am: A little good news from ROTW Google Group: "Good News for Fairway and Grandview in Lake Arrowhead/Twin Peaks" - My son-in-law drove through up Hwy 189 through Grandview and then down Fairway with a Fire Captain around 9AM and verified that although there is very strong smell of smoke, there were no houses lost or of immediate threat. Most of the trees in the hillside north of Fairway are burned. There was no house burned on El Dorado as earlier reported. A fire truck is stationed on El Dorado near Fairway, and several fire trucks from other areas are at Grandview Elementary. They are doing a great job putting out any spot fires. They tried to reach Running Springs but were unable due to high winds blowing the fire south/south west to Hwy 18. (Courtesy from the Google Groups via ROT.net)
10:11am {via email from resident in CPP - Thank you} "Just got back from Crestline shopping at Goodwins (9:30 AM). They are trying to stay open with only three people, but mandatory evacuation will probably shut them down. Police are now enforcing evacuation. Saw several police cars pulling walkers and bikers over and telling them to leave now. Fire hasn’t come down into Crestline yet. I drove around Edelweiss to view fire. Fire seems to be slowly coming down the slope below Grandview St. in Twin Peaks, maybe a quarter of the way down. It does seem to have traveled further south from last night on Grandview. As of 9 PM, it hadn’t reached the Twin Peaks Police Station when I drove up with my motorcycle to take a look, but it looks as if it may have jumped passed it this morning heading to Strawberry Peak. Still looks to be burning strong north/northwest of Grandview Elementary, hopefully the school is safe. But, it’s hard to tell because of the smoke... I’m hoping they can hold the line and prevent it from dropping into Crestline, but I didn’t see any firefighters in containment mode right now. Let’s all pray for some air support. Looks like the officials are triaging the fires and they are considering us a patient with a burst artery and moving on. Let’s hope that’s not the case. Lake arrowhead should all evac because it seems that 18 is the established route out right now due to the 330 being closed. They don’t want to be trapped in. VOE and Cedarpines Park still have the 18 and 138 so we should be okay unless it jumps down into Crestline or the wind shifts and starts blowing over us. I’ll keep you updated. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire mountain community. I love this community and hope we all stand together as one."
From Other Sources:
12:43pm: {via IM} So I just heard from a friend that lived near LAE that another fire just sprung up there. He hadn't left yet since it's voluntary, and then a fire happened right near him and he had to pack up all his things and leave really quick. {From ROTW scanner} sounds like North Shore and Yosemite area. Yellowstone and Yosemite; Zion and Lake Edge; Golden Rule and 173; all in the same area; response enroute.
12:25pm: Upper Rose Lane looks ok in Twin Peaks. However, the smoke from Running Springs is strong. Thanks K.O'B.
12:22pm: LiveTV-- The governor is at MPH with the same information from his other speeches.
11:48am Here in Palm Springs, I am listening to the radio overhead, and the reports are far more (relatively) grim that what I am seeing on TV and/or online.
11:12am {via email} "A family member just called me telling me that the fire went BEHIND grandview and is heading down dart canyon, missed us completly, the RANGER RD fire went in the same direction of grandview, so the ball park, pine rose, kingdom hall is all fine, its gonna hit all those ranches and probably burn into miller canyon and lake gregory area."
11:10am L'Urbz got off the phone with the Hotline again. Fire is moving very erratically in the area of Grandview Road. "I got a little conflicting info when it came to another witnesses' account, that it is burning more north than the ball park and Kingdom Hall."
Mark Malone sent me three pictures from the Grass Valley area:
From Mr. Smith for Rim Drama
October, 22, 2007, 20:20
"The Diary of Anne Frank" dress rehearsal is cancelled for Tuesday, and that I will be updating my website (www.rimdrama.com) as I get more info on the fate of the play?" --Mr. Joel Smith
Updates from Monday Evening
October, 22, 2007, 19:38
From ROTW.net (scanner monitors and site posts):
Here is a picture link showing the Grass Valley Fire perimeter.
"We can see the glow of the fire and flames from Lakeview Dr. in Crestline above Lake Gregory on the North East side of Crestline. Fire appears to be above Dart Canyon on the ridge?"
AA15 to ground (Grass incident, I believe) - "... midslope there at the road; if it slopes over, I think you're going to have something there. Is there a road parallel to that ridge? The fire is paralleling that. If it holds there, you've got a good chance; if it slopes over that ridge, you've got a whole bowl there that goes for miles; if we can get some helitankers up here tomorrow... either way we'll be back up tomorrow."; {missed - talked about Tunnel 2, I believe}.
"Get the helitankers up first thing to pick up that right flank all the way up; the Slide is pretty smokey and a mess, we'll take one more lap around and then we're heading for ***; we'll try to be up by 7am, but that may be optomistic ."
AA15 - "That fire isn't looking fierce in all places"; "it may not be as bad as it once looked."
Slide Fire: "Fire is coming to the backside of the campground." (no details as to where, but reference earlier post possibly in Deep Creek area)
"The Deep Creek Canyon is going up now; that stuff at holding at Crab Flats is not doing us any good." (7:34pm)
From Other Sources:
An eyewitness shared a post about how the area by the LACC Golf Course has an intense amount of loss and damage.
Another friend that is still up the mountain shared-- "Looks like the smoke is lying down a bit and winds are not as strong."
Short Updates during Tanker Runs
October, 22, 2007, 18:40
From ROTW.net:
Interstate 15 is closed through the Cajon Pass through due to power lines damaged over the freeway.
Evacuees are being sent to the Orange Show Fairgrounds, 689 S. E St. San Bernardino, CA, 92408 and to the San Bernardino County Fairgrounds in Victorville at Building #3 on 7th Street. Animal Control is establishing an emergency evacuation center for animals at Wildwood Park at 40th Street and Waterman in San Bernardino. San Bernardino County Animal Control can be reached at (909) 356-3998.
They're going to be over in the area of Spyglass and Augusta; "over there where the fire is spotting and all that."
AA15 over the fire at first light tomorrow. AA15 states all aircraft including news media are off the incident.
Slide Fire: Fire is 1/2 mile from the camp and now they're leaving; we have bodies staged in that general; approx 400 yards from the bottom of Deep Creek; then it will have to come up Deep Creek; we're not thinking immediate threat yet.
Skyforest is reportedly now under a voluntary evacuation. According to reports, the voluntary evacuation has also been extended to Crestline. 40-King, the Sheriff's Department helicoptor, made announcements in the Crestline area before 5 PM.
Tanker 910 completed a third drop for the Grass Valley incident.
"Need hand crews in the Trinity area; a lot of work to be done; hand crews we have are keeping it out of {Miller?} Canyon right now."
{Out of area - but may effect evacuees} "Caltrans and CHP on Scanner report 15 freeway will remain closed until tomorrow. Will make next decision no earlier than 1400 hours Tuesday."
Tanker 910 completed the first drop for Grass Valley fire, returning to base to refill retardant. Objective of Tanker 910 is to lay in retardant line between active fire and Rimforest/Crestline area. Anticipates being able to make 2-3 more drops before cut-off time.
Highways 18, 330, and 138 are closed to residents; residents down the hill are not allowed to their homes; they're keeping everybody off the hill due to fire activity, no ETA for reopening.
Contacts in Cedar Glen say that things are going OK over in that area.
from SCM - "Power lines down on Golf Course at Oakmont."
From Other Sources:
L'Urbz got a fire update from NBC4's website for the Grass Valley Hotline-- (909) 383-5688. He was told that there was a change in direction of the fire going from Grandview toward Crestline more than Highway 189.
I also noticed via personal IM's, MySpace and Facebook posts that many people are still on the mountain in all areas. Please make the right choices and be safe.
Through word-of-mouth, I have received two negatives and two positives toward the Twin Peaks area (between 5pm and 6:15pm). One of the negatives was from a high-level official from the fire teams who was severely worried that the fire will going up and through Twin Peaks onto Crestline. When I heard it, it sort of took my breath away.
Interstate 15 is closed through the Cajon Pass through due to power lines damaged over the freeway.
Evacuees are being sent to the Orange Show Fairgrounds, 689 S. E St. San Bernardino, CA, 92408 and to the San Bernardino County Fairgrounds in Victorville at Building #3 on 7th Street. Animal Control is establishing an emergency evacuation center for animals at Wildwood Park at 40th Street and Waterman in San Bernardino. San Bernardino County Animal Control can be reached at (909) 356-3998.
They're going to be over in the area of Spyglass and Augusta; "over there where the fire is spotting and all that."
AA15 over the fire at first light tomorrow. AA15 states all aircraft including news media are off the incident.
Slide Fire: Fire is 1/2 mile from the camp and now they're leaving; we have bodies staged in that general; approx 400 yards from the bottom of Deep Creek; then it will have to come up Deep Creek; we're not thinking immediate threat yet.
Skyforest is reportedly now under a voluntary evacuation. According to reports, the voluntary evacuation has also been extended to Crestline. 40-King, the Sheriff's Department helicoptor, made announcements in the Crestline area before 5 PM.
Tanker 910 completed a third drop for the Grass Valley incident.
"Need hand crews in the Trinity area; a lot of work to be done; hand crews we have are keeping it out of {Miller?} Canyon right now."
{Out of area - but may effect evacuees} "Caltrans and CHP on Scanner report 15 freeway will remain closed until tomorrow. Will make next decision no earlier than 1400 hours Tuesday."
Tanker 910 completed the first drop for Grass Valley fire, returning to base to refill retardant. Objective of Tanker 910 is to lay in retardant line between active fire and Rimforest/Crestline area. Anticipates being able to make 2-3 more drops before cut-off time.
Highways 18, 330, and 138 are closed to residents; residents down the hill are not allowed to their homes; they're keeping everybody off the hill due to fire activity, no ETA for reopening.
Contacts in Cedar Glen say that things are going OK over in that area.
from SCM - "Power lines down on Golf Course at Oakmont."
From Other Sources:
L'Urbz got a fire update from NBC4's website for the Grass Valley Hotline-- (909) 383-5688. He was told that there was a change in direction of the fire going from Grandview toward Crestline more than Highway 189.
I also noticed via personal IM's, MySpace and Facebook posts that many people are still on the mountain in all areas. Please make the right choices and be safe.
Through word-of-mouth, I have received two negatives and two positives toward the Twin Peaks area (between 5pm and 6:15pm). One of the negatives was from a high-level official from the fire teams who was severely worried that the fire will going up and through Twin Peaks onto Crestline. When I heard it, it sort of took my breath away.
Evacuated
October, 22, 2007, 16:47
Well, I finally found a very weak internet wireless signal to post this.
My iPhone wireless has been nothing but awesome. I made reservations while stuck in traffic on the 18, knew where the map was to get there, and how much. Done in less than 4 minutes. We are now in Palm Springs at a tiny condo-like place called the The Adriatic Villa Resort. The price was fair for four of us and they were open for a few days on last minute reservations. This place has a bunch of gnomes and a huge Koi pond with french doors looking over them.
All of us are keeping track of everything we can-- KCAL radio, TV, iPhone-Internet, websites, and wonderful friends and family. "Thank you" from the most sincerest part of our hearts. L'Urbz is at CSUF keeping track of things here: http://brh206locals.blogspot.com
The fire, from the info I have gathered, is in the Grandview area. Many spot fires are all over the place on Augusta (right near the elementary school). Our house is ok as of 30 minutes ago, but still lies in the direct path of the fire. We did not have this sort of sick feeling in 2003.
We wish for the best on every level.
The manager here found me a better wireless access point for the time being for free. And the lovely wife of mine brought me some candy and Ginger Ale. The littlest things mean so much.
UPDATE @ 4:42pm: Jason Jackson called me and said that NBC4 is showing Helicopter drops over Twin Peaks now. One of the notes on the scanner says that one of the Structure Groups are "holding the line." Where that is, we do not know, but it is somewhere in the Grass Valley area. Any piece of positive news is always welcome and built upon.
UPDATE 2 @ 4:46pm: Air Tanker 722 has drafted 2,000 gallons of water from Lake Arrowhead. It has been circling the fire, but so far has not made a drop. There have been some unconfirmed reports of looting and the Sheriff's Department helicopter is being used to investigate reports of looters and suspicious persons. The DC-10 has been ordered, but remains on hold. Crestline area - "We just had a helicopter circle above asking everyone to leave on a voluntary basis right now!!!!" (Courtesy: rimoftheworld.net)
Slide Fire update: 20 homes have been confirmed burned.
Resources on Scene-- 17 engines, 5 Water Tenders.
Weather: Current Wind Conditions 30 mph NE
My iPhone wireless has been nothing but awesome. I made reservations while stuck in traffic on the 18, knew where the map was to get there, and how much. Done in less than 4 minutes. We are now in Palm Springs at a tiny condo-like place called the The Adriatic Villa Resort. The price was fair for four of us and they were open for a few days on last minute reservations. This place has a bunch of gnomes and a huge Koi pond with french doors looking over them.
All of us are keeping track of everything we can-- KCAL radio, TV, iPhone-Internet, websites, and wonderful friends and family. "Thank you" from the most sincerest part of our hearts. L'Urbz is at CSUF keeping track of things here: http://brh206locals.blogspot.com
The fire, from the info I have gathered, is in the Grandview area. Many spot fires are all over the place on Augusta (right near the elementary school). Our house is ok as of 30 minutes ago, but still lies in the direct path of the fire. We did not have this sort of sick feeling in 2003.
We wish for the best on every level.
The manager here found me a better wireless access point for the time being for free. And the lovely wife of mine brought me some candy and Ginger Ale. The littlest things mean so much.
UPDATE @ 4:42pm: Jason Jackson called me and said that NBC4 is showing Helicopter drops over Twin Peaks now. One of the notes on the scanner says that one of the Structure Groups are "holding the line." Where that is, we do not know, but it is somewhere in the Grass Valley area. Any piece of positive news is always welcome and built upon.
UPDATE 2 @ 4:46pm: Air Tanker 722 has drafted 2,000 gallons of water from Lake Arrowhead. It has been circling the fire, but so far has not made a drop. There have been some unconfirmed reports of looting and the Sheriff's Department helicopter is being used to investigate reports of looters and suspicious persons. The DC-10 has been ordered, but remains on hold. Crestline area - "We just had a helicopter circle above asking everyone to leave on a voluntary basis right now!!!!" (Courtesy: rimoftheworld.net)
Slide Fire update: 20 homes have been confirmed burned.
Resources on Scene-- 17 engines, 5 Water Tenders.
Weather: Current Wind Conditions 30 mph NE
Listening to the live scanner online
October, 22, 2007, 10:48
As I update all of the website stuff here at home, the Mrs. is keeping an ear on the scanner. It does not sound good. Structures are burning and the golf course alarms are going off. The winds are shifting over and over. Looking outside one minute it is dark, and the it gets glowing bright again. Nonetheless, it is very hard to breathe. I do have the air conditioning going every now and then.
Due to the Old Fire experience, let me tell you this time around has brought WAY more anxiety, even though we are better prepared. Also, insurance companies, such as State Farm are no longer covering most issues surrounding Fire issues.
Still not much news on TV about our fires, and more are cropping up. ABC7 is finally giving some air time to our situation. CBS has been minimal. We do not even watch NBC4 anymore. Many houses are burning in Lake Arrowhead live on TV watching ABC7. This fire may be worse, or already is, than the Old Fire, since it is burning from inside the mountain.
Here is the Big Bear Live Scanner: http://www.bigbearscanner.com/
Running Springs and Arrowbear communities have mandatory evacuations now, but many residents refuse to leave. From the scanner: "There's a lot of houses and very little equipment. They need to evacuate right now. "
Scanner Update: Ok, the fires are growing at an alarming rate. According to ABC7 news (10:38am), 20 structures have been lost so far. Structure assessment so far: 1500 in Lake Arrowhead and 400 in Green Valley affected. There are confirmed structures burning in Green Valley, with strike teams on there way. The management team for both fires is now combined into one team. Eight bulldozers have been requested for the Green Valley Lake area.
I think we will be leaving this mountain soon. It is very difficult to keep listening to the scanners and watching TV with more homes going up in flames. The winds are incredibly bad.
In Twin Peaks, we just got personal word that the fire broke the fire lines and are under mandatory evacuation. I will try to be online sometime later wherever we find a place to stay.
Prayers to everyone that this situation can be managed to all you.
Due to the Old Fire experience, let me tell you this time around has brought WAY more anxiety, even though we are better prepared. Also, insurance companies, such as State Farm are no longer covering most issues surrounding Fire issues.
Still not much news on TV about our fires, and more are cropping up. ABC7 is finally giving some air time to our situation. CBS has been minimal. We do not even watch NBC4 anymore. Many houses are burning in Lake Arrowhead live on TV watching ABC7. This fire may be worse, or already is, than the Old Fire, since it is burning from inside the mountain.
Here is the Big Bear Live Scanner: http://www.bigbearscanner.com/
Running Springs and Arrowbear communities have mandatory evacuations now, but many residents refuse to leave. From the scanner: "There's a lot of houses and very little equipment. They need to evacuate right now. "
Scanner Update: Ok, the fires are growing at an alarming rate. According to ABC7 news (10:38am), 20 structures have been lost so far. Structure assessment so far: 1500 in Lake Arrowhead and 400 in Green Valley affected. There are confirmed structures burning in Green Valley, with strike teams on there way. The management team for both fires is now combined into one team. Eight bulldozers have been requested for the Green Valley Lake area.
I think we will be leaving this mountain soon. It is very difficult to keep listening to the scanners and watching TV with more homes going up in flames. The winds are incredibly bad.
In Twin Peaks, we just got personal word that the fire broke the fire lines and are under mandatory evacuation. I will try to be online sometime later wherever we find a place to stay.
Prayers to everyone that this situation can be managed to all you.
Grass Valley Fire in Lake Arrowhead
October, 22, 2007, 08:29
Well, we are sitting here in Twin Peaks under voluntary evacuation. Our cars are packed and both boys of ours are in their respective colleges. Our school district is not giving us much information or direction to make decision on getting a motel or space away from the mountain.
If we did get a couple of days at a timeshare or Motel6, we could not check in until the afternoon anyways. In the year 2007, the media still cannot give proper information during a crisis. They are more interested in the shock and awe of the story.
Other websites are getting hammered as expected. The news media is not offering much information whatsoever, mostly due to the Malibu fire.
We sit and wait...
UPDATE TWO: Our neighborhood is starting to evacuate on Rose Lane. Keep checking "The Urbz Forum" on this website. I am posting updates from any websites or media I can find on it as fast as I can.
UPDATE THREE: The website InciWeb.org (national forest fire website) has gone down.
If we did get a couple of days at a timeshare or Motel6, we could not check in until the afternoon anyways. In the year 2007, the media still cannot give proper information during a crisis. They are more interested in the shock and awe of the story.
Other websites are getting hammered as expected. The news media is not offering much information whatsoever, mostly due to the Malibu fire.
We sit and wait...
UPDATE TWO: Our neighborhood is starting to evacuate on Rose Lane. Keep checking "The Urbz Forum" on this website. I am posting updates from any websites or media I can find on it as fast as I can.
UPDATE THREE: The website InciWeb.org (national forest fire website) has gone down.