Firefighters Working To Keep Wildfire Near Lake Tahoe From Approaching Markleeville

LAKE TAHOE (CBS13) — The Washington Fire burning near Lake Tahoe is five percent contained, up from zero percent containment Tuesday.

The fire has burned more than 16,500 acres of tree and brush in hazardous and inaccessible mountain terrain. The fire had been 10 percent contained on Monday, but high winds fanned the blaze.

Firefighters say their primary goal is to keep the fire from spreading towards Markleeville.

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 to 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.