5-Alarm Keller Fire in Oakland Hills Prompts Evacuations

On Friday afternoon, a five-alarm fire erupted in the Oakland Hills, quickly escalating and prompting urgent evacuations in the area surrounding I-580, Mountain Boulevard, and Keller Avenue. Here’s an in-depth look at the ongoing situation regarding the Keller Fire.

Fire Details

The Keller Fire was first reported around 1:15 p.m. on Friday, igniting near the I-580 corridor and rapidly advancing up the hillside. Michael Hunt, chief of staff for the Oakland Fire Department, noted that by late afternoon, the fire had grown to approximately 13 acres. As firefighters worked tirelessly to contain the flames, they were able to announce by 4 p.m. that the fire’s forward progress had been halted. While this is encouraging news, the situation remains fluid, with around 10 structures reported as impacted, and several others still under threat.

Fire crews are facing challenges due to the steep terrain and dry conditions in the area. The response has involved approximately 100 firefighters on the ground, with additional support from Cal Fire, which has deployed air resources to assist in battling the blaze. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported, highlighting the effectiveness of the quick evacuation orders issued by city officials.

Evacuation Orders

In light of the fire’s rapid spread, the city of Oakland has issued urgent evacuation orders for several neighborhoods. Residents in the following areas are strongly encouraged to leave immediately:

Ridgemont
Caballo Hills
Monte Vista
Leona Drive
Old Quarry Loop

Authorities emphasize the importance of acting quickly and safely. Residents are advised to gather essential items, including pets, medications, and important documents. It’s recommended to use only one vehicle for evacuating to streamline the process and reduce traffic congestion, which can hinder evacuation efforts.

Evacuation Points

To assist those affected by the fire, the city has established several designated evacuation centers where residents can find refuge and support. The locations are:

Bushrod Recreation Center – 560 59th St.
East Oakland Sports Center – 9161 Edes Ave.
Ira Jinkins Recreation Center – 9175 Edes Ave.
La Escuelita Elementary School – 1050 2nd Ave.

These centers will provide shelter and assistance to evacuees during this challenging time. Additionally, Merritt College has closed its campus to ensure the safety of students and staff.

Related Incidents

In the midst of the fire response, Pacific Gas and Electric has reported an unplanned power outage near Keller Avenue. At this time, officials are investigating whether the outage is connected to the fire activity. Such outages can complicate firefighting efforts and put additional strain on local resources.

Weather Conditions

The fire’s timing coincides with a red flag warning issued by the National Weather Service, which began on October 17. This warning indicates that dry and windy conditions are present in the area, significantly increasing the risk of fire spread. The red flag warning will remain in effect until Sunday at 5 p.m., and residents are urged to remain vigilant and prepared for any further developments.

Historical Context

The Oakland Hills are classified as very high fire hazard severity zones, a designation that carries weight given the area’s history with devastating wildfires. One of the most tragic incidents occurred on October 19, 1991, when a firestorm swept through the region, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. This historical context serves as a reminder to residents of the persistent threat of wildfires in the area.

Community Response and Preparedness

As the community grapples with the unfolding situation, local officials and fire crews are emphasizing the importance of preparedness. Residents are encouraged to have emergency plans in place, including designated evacuation routes and supplies ready to go at a moment’s notice. Staying informed through official channels and community alerts can also help residents respond effectively to changing conditions.

Conclusion 5-Alarm Keller Fire in Oakland Hills Prompts Evacuations

As firefighters continue to battle the Keller Fire, the safety and well-being of residents remain the top priority. Community members are reminded to heed evacuation orders and stay updated on the fire’s status. In the face of this emergency, collective action and vigilance can make a crucial difference, helping to protect lives and property during this challenging time.

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5-Alarm Keller Fire in Oakland Hills Prompts Evacuations