 Los Angeles News
ANGELES NATIONAL FOREST—The Williams fire that burnt more
than 4,000 acres since erupting on September 2 has cost nearly $9
million so far and is now 100 percent contained, forest officials said. Around
33 percent of the fire’s costs are from aircraft expensive, 27 percent is from
hand crew expenses; the remaining costs are from camp support, personnel, equipment
and supplies, said the U.S. Forest Service Spokesperson. The fire burnt through
mixed conifer and chaparral on steep terrain with high temperatures, making it
tough on firefighters. With help from 1,000 firefighters and hand crews along
with helicopters, air tankers higher humidity and rain, the Williams fire was
declared 100 percent contained on Tuesday night. The majority of fire crews
have left the scene however, some fire personnel remain near the burn area’s
perimeter monitoring for smoke. Just fifteen firefighters sustained minor
injuries including heat exhaustion, and sprained ankles.
As the fire burned, it forced the evacuation of approximately 100 residents along the East Fork of the San Gabriel River. Many others were forced out of the Valley during Labor Day. Popular public areas that traditionally draw large crowds for Labor Day weekend, and are used for hiking, picnics, and camping, were evacuated. As of Tuesday the Canyon remained closed to anyone besides permanent residents. Highway 39 remained closed, as well as Glendora Mountain Road and Glendora Ridge Road. © Copyright 2011 by canyon-news.com |
