Washington Fire: Crews Try To Regain Lost Ground, Containment Near Lake Tahoe

LAKE TAHOE (CBS13) — Fire crews have lost some ground on the Washington Fire that's burning near Lake Tahoe.

Flames have charred more than 16,000 acres, an increase from 9,500 acres at the same time on Monday. Containment has dropped from 10 percent to 0 percent due to strong winds.

Seeing a helicopter dip into the Carson River on Tuesday was a good sign, since crews weren't able to attack from above when 40 mph winds lashed flames the past few days.

"In fact, it spotted a mile and half in front of itself, that's how we got the new flank on the northwest side," said Elizabeth Kenna with the U.S. Forest Service.

The lighter winds allowed crews to try and contain the runs the blaze made, but as is the case with any large fire, winds deep in canyons are erratic at best

"Basically we have to address that as it comes, and keep safety in mind," she said.

Safety is top of mind for many homeowners in the area, most ready to go the second they get a knock on the door.

Henry Wiegel's vacation home is safe for now, as flames are a few ridges and a couple of creeks away.

"I figure if push comes to shove, everything we can get in that Toyota Prius, it's all we're gonna take," he said.

But for some, it's not just a vacation home—their business and paycheck are both on the line.