Use caution and avoid the area around Mile Marker 5, Highway 162
8:25 PM Update:
The Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office has cancelled the situational awareness advisory for the wildfire previously reported near the Covelo area, specifically near Mile Marker 5 on Highway 162. The situation is now under control, and there is no longer a need for residents or visitors to avoid the area or take further action at this time.
8:16 PM Update:
The Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office has issued a situational awareness advisory concerning the ongoing vegetation fire near the Covelo area, in proximity to Mile marker 5 on Highway 162. The advisory suggests that no further action is needed at this time but encourages residents and visitors to exercise caution and avoid the area.
Information is being actively shared by various public agencies via social media platforms and websites. For real-time updates, follow the Mendocino Sheriff’s Office on Twitter (@MendoSheriff) and Facebook (@MendocinoSheriff). CAL FIRE Mendocino Unit is also regularly posting updates on Twitter (@CALFIRE_MEU), Facebook (@CALFIREMENDOCINOUNIT), and Instagram (@calfiremeu).
Additional resources can be accessed at the CAL FIRE official website (https://www.fire.ca.gov/) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Ready initiative (https://www.ready.gov/wildfires).
Please remember this situation is rapidly evolving, and details may change as more information becomes available. The Ukiah Post is committed to keeping the community informed and will continue to monitor and provide updates on this developing story.
Original Post
COVELO, CA – A vegetation fire was reported this evening on Highway 162 near the 39200 block, approximately 5 miles east of Longvale. The Bend Incident Command (IC) is currently overseeing the situation, which commenced at around 7:45 PM on July 1, 2023.
Local residents reported a suspicious smell of smoke shortly after hearing a vehicle pull over. The smoke was initially detected coming from the west side right off Highway 162 at 7:46 PM, prompting immediate notification of local authorities.
A full wildland dispatch was activated by 7:51 PM, with air support from Aircraft C101 and various tankers also being called in. Ground efforts include fire crews 2 and 3, who are currently working to contain the blaze.
The cause of the fire remains unknown, and there is currently no word on how the fire is affecting traffic on Highway 162. It is crucial for local residents and those traveling in the area to exercise caution and respect any road closures or detours.
This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as soon as more information becomes available.
The situation is currently unfolding, and details may change as more information is released. We recommend checking back for updates or following our social media channels to stay informed.
