Wildfire image by Issy Bailey on unsplash.com

With fires burning in Fresno County since Monday, evacuations have been prompted to residents in the affected areas. 

The American Red Cross Central Valley Chapter has opened an evacuation shelter at Reedley College (995 N Reed Ave, Reedley, CA 93654) for evacuees affected by the Flash and Bolt wildfires. 

In partnership with Fresno County, Red Cross volunteers will provide evacuees safe refuge from the wildfires, water, snacks and additional resources. They encourage anyone who needs assistance to come to the shelter and residents in nearby areas to be ready to evacuate.

Evacuating residents are encouraged to bring the following for each member of their family: prescription and other emergency medication, extra clothing, pillows, blankets, hygiene supplies, important documents and other comfort items. Additionally, special items for children and infants, such as diapers, formulas and toys, should be brought along with other items for family members who may have other needs.  

Red Cross shelters are open to everyone in need, regardless of race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation or citizenship status. All disaster assistance is free.

Around 30 homes have been affected by the evacuation order. Crews are prepared for pets and livestock but are not actively evacuating them. Cal Fire says the Fresno Fairgrounds at 1120 S. Chance Avenue is open as a large-animal-only evacuation center.

The Flash Fire near Highway 180 is reported to have burned 2,180 acres as of Wednesday morning and is 15% contained. The Bolt Fire on Palomino and Elwood Rd in Wonder Valley is reported to have burned 4,556 acres as of Wednesday morning and is 15% contained.