Anaheim Hills Canyon Fire Latest News: Firefighters Continue to Evacuate Residents

By Denise See, Christian Post Contributor Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Many homes and structures have already been destroyed by a wildfire that struck Anaheim Hills. Residents are advised to be prepared in case of an emergency evacuation.

Last night's update from Anaheim.net states that mandatory evacuations are still in effect in Anaheim, Orange, and Tustin in California.

For Anaheim, the evacuation area is located east of Serrano, North of Nohl Ranch, south of 91 Freeway, and west of 241 Freeway. For Orange, it will be in Orange Park Acres, Santiago Canyon Road East of Cannon. For Tustin, evacuation area is located in Jamboree and Tustin Ranch Road (north of Pioneer).

Overnight shelter can be found at Katella High School (2200 E. Wagner Ave.). Those who live south of Walnut Creek Reservoir should be alert, as they may need to evacuate should the fire reach their area.

According to the Los Angeles Times, the fire started on Monday morning near the 91 Freeway and Gypsum Canyon Road, where it grew and traveled through the California 241 toll road. By nighttime, the fire had burned 6,000 acres and 24 structures.

Over 5,000 homes across three cities were evacuated due to the rapid growth of the blaze. The smoke was so thick and high that it could be seen over Disneyland. Some schools like Tustin Unified School District and Santiago Canyon College have called off classes.

Approximately 1,000 firefighters from different areas are combatting the fire. Because of the high winds, the blaze grew immensely and traveled quickly. For this reason, firefighters could not battle the flames head-on. Instead, they turned their attention to making sure residents are out of harm's way.

"We're hoping that the weather goes in our favor," Anaheim police spokesman Sgt. Daron Wyatt said.

The Anaheim Fire update further reveals that containment is only at 5 percent. Residents should take note of the emergency hotlines. For Orange, it is 714-744-7550. For Anaheim, it is 714-765-4333.

Real-time updates can be found on Anaheim Fire's Twitter page.