Trailhead Fire Evacuations Expand As Fire Hits 1,000 Acres

FORESTHILL (CBS 13) - The Trailhead Fire has burned 1,000 acres in the last 24 hours. It's 12 percent contained but in the high summer temperatures, Cal Fire doesn't expect the flames to die down soon.

"There may be the potential the fire grows," said Daniel Berlant, spokesperson for Cal Fire. "We may have to call for additional evacuations."

Just before 5 p.m., Cal Fire expanded the evacuation area. Jeri Ploog hasn't been asked to evacuate but she's preparing anyway.

"I have everything packed," she said. "My son is here in case we have to leave so he can take my truck and I can take the motorcycle and just get out."

About 250 firefighters have been fighting the flames in Foresthill. Tuesday night, Cal Fire brought in an air tanker to drop retardant over the flames Now they're working closely with Placer County Sheriff's Office and urging residents to evacuate. 2,500 structures are still in danger.

"If it jumps the canyon, we can lose everything," Ploog said. "I grew up in the mountains and I know how quickly it can just go."

The combination of the low humidity and high temperatures creates the perfect scenario for the fire to continue to spread. And windy conditions in the canyon only make conditions even more dangerous.

"It's just dear to my heart and it's just a shame that it's burning," said Jason Nicholas. "I hope they get it out as soon as possible."

Ploog said even years of flames and evacuations don't make the danger any less real.

"It's what you live with," Ploog said. "It doesn't mean you're not afraid of it."