Cal Fire battles rapidly spreading Gann Fire in Calaveras County
The Gann Fire, igniting near Hogan Dam on Monday evening, has burned about 3,000 acres with no containment as of Tuesday morning, prompting evacuations and shelter operations.
Crews worked through the night to prevent the Gann Fire, which ignited shortly before 5:30 p.m. Monday near Hogan Dam and Gann roads by New Hogan Lake, from spreading further. By 9:33 a.m. Tuesday, Cal Fire reported the blaze had consumed roughly 3,000 acres, up from 2,100 acres earlier, and remained uncontained while burning at a moderate rate.
Evacuation orders were issued for zones CCU-147, CCU-139, CCU-110 and CCU-109, with an advisory for zone CCU-130. Residents were instructed to leave immediately from ordered zones and to follow local guidance in advisory areas. The Red Cross opened a shelter at Jenny Lind Memorial District in Valley Springs, providing water, meals and emotional support, and advised evacuees to bring medication, extra clothing, hygiene supplies and important documents.
The Calaveras County Sheriff's Office directed displaced livestock to the county fairgrounds in Angels Camp and set up an animal shelter at 300 W Daphne Street in Valley Springs for pets. More than 250 personnel, including Firehawk helicopters capable of night operations, were deployed to combat the fire.
During the response, a dozer overturned, injuring a firefighter who was taken to a hospital for evaluation. Additionally, a pickup truck collided head-on with a fire engine, causing significant damage; California Highway Patrol officers cleared the vehicle to keep the road open for responders.
A large plume of smoke and hazy skies covered the area on Tuesday. The Calaveras Unified School District monitored air quality and decided to keep schools open, though outdoor activities such as recess might be adjusted.