Residents in Eureka returned home after being evacuated for a second time following the merger of the Iron and Cherry fires on Friday. Although rain and cooler temperatures offered relief on Sunday, fire officials stated that the community is not out of danger.
Eureka remained under a SET evacuation status, which requires residents to be prepared to leave again if conditions change.
Fire spokesperson Brianna Liston said that the possibility of another evacuation depends on various factors, including whether critical fire weather conditions return.
Fire crews have made progress on the Iron Fire, and officials noted that Sunday's weather assisted firefighters in their efforts. The primary focus for crews has shifted to the Cherry Fire, which had burned approximately 34,248 acres and remained 0% contained as of Sunday.
Liston stated that firefighters are taking advantage of lower temperatures and lighter winds to continue their work.
For residents like Lori Brockman and Linda Hope, the return home occurred sooner than they anticipated. Brockman expressed gratitude toward the firefighters and their families for protecting the community, noting that the pair had only been away for a day.
