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MORGAN HILL — A large park fire raging in the hills near the Anderson Reservoir had spread to about 343 acres and was about 70 percent contained as of 7 p.m. Sunday, spreading smoke and haze over the South Bay, authorities said.
Firefighters responded about midnight Sunday to reports of grass and brush burning just off East Dunne Road near the lake. The blaze quickly spread while crews were trying to get a handle on it.
Lingering smoke in the are also cause officials to issue an air quality advisory Sunday for smoke in the far South Bay, including Morgan Hill, San Martin and Gilroy.
“Multiple brush fires were sparked throughout the region by fireworks during the Fourth of July holiday weekend. The current dry, hot and windy conditions increase the risk of grass and brush fires,” the Bay Area Air Quality Management District said in a statement.
“The Air District will be closely monitoring air quality throughout the region for smoke impacts from fires as well as fireworks.”
The statement said that onshore winds were expected to be light and become stronger through the day. Satellite imagery showed that smoke is being funneled out of the Santa Clara Valley region. Impacts could include smoky skies, the smell of smoke and localized elevated particle pollution. Officials advise people to stay indoors.
Cal Fire Deputy Chief Mike Marcucci said there had been no reports of injuries or damage to property as of Sunday morning.
About 10 residences were evacuated early Sunday on Finley Ridge Road. There was a hard road closure on East Dunne Road before Anderson Lake, Marcucci said. Evacuation orders were lifted Sunday evening, authorities said.
More than 300 firefighters, 40 fire engines, three helicopters and four airplane tankers had been deployed to fight the fire, Marcucci added.
The overnight blaze started as dozens of other small fires burned across the Bay Area after a long night of thunderous and relentless fireworks celebrating Independence Day. Marcucci said it was too early to tell just what started the Morgan Hill fire.
#ParkFire off of East Dunne Avenue and Finley Ridge Road, East of Morgan Hill in Santa Clara County is 343 acres and 70% contained. Evacuations orders lifted. pic.twitter.com/SExjF8A8WB
— CAL FIRE (@CAL_FIRE) July 6, 2020
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