PLYMOUTH-
The Sand Fire, burning along the Amador and El Dorado County border, has destroyed 19 homes. Cal Fire released new information Tuesday morning, and while the size of the wildfire remains steady at 3,800 acres, or about six square miles, the damage and impact of this fire is coming to light.
In addition to the 19 homes, 47 other outbuildings and structures are destroyed, but Cal Fire says damage assessment continues.
The fire’s forward progress has slowed, and firefighters have it 80% contained.
Evacuation orders remain in effect for Freshwater Road, south of Vintage Trail, Flat Creek Road, Brinkwood Road, Painted Pony Road, Huggins Road, Twin Rivers Road, and all connecting roads. Sand Ridge Road is also still evacuated.
A shelter has been set up at Ponderosa High School in Shingle Springs. Those evacuees with animals, however, will need to call animal services for help, the El Dorado County Fairgrounds is no longer accepting animals.
Cal Fire says a vehicle drove over dry grass, starting the Sand Fire.
The terrain is rugged in the area of the fire, and it could take a few days more for firefighters to have the Sand Fire completely contained.
Cal Fire Closes Air Space Above Sand Fire Following Drone Visitor
Evacuees of Sand Fire Fear the Worst, Hope for the Best