Quick-Moving Wildfire Scorches Chinese Camp, Forces Evacuations

OLUMNE, Calif. (AP) - A lightning-sparked wildfire raced through Chinese Camp on Wednesday, burning more than 6 square miles of brush and destroying at least five homes in the historic Gold Rush town.

The blaze, dubbed the 6-5 Fire, ignited Tuesday afternoon after an evening thunderstorm rolled through Tuolumne County. Fueled by dry vegetation and brief, erratic winds, the flames spread rapidly along Highway 120, prompting mandatory evacuations for all residents of Chinese Camp and nearby roads including Red Hill Road and Old Don Pedro Road.

Fire crews battled the blaze from the ground and air, deploying bulldozers to clear fire lines and helicopters to douse hotspots. Despite the large perimeter, there were no immediate reports of injuries or fatalities as of Wednesday evening.

Local volunteers and homeowners worked frantically to protect structures, using sand and pruning branches to slow the fire’s advance until firefighters arrived. An RV on one property suffered heavy damage before crews gained the upper hand late Wednesday afternoon.

Cal Fire chief spokesperson Maria Torres said additional engine crews and aircraft remain en route as containment efforts continue. “Our top priorities are protecting lives, homes and critical infrastructure,” she said.

Chinese Camp, founded by displaced Chinese miners in the 1850s and renamed to honor their heritage, lies along the main route to Stockton. The town’s small population has remained under evacuation orders while crews work to establish control lines and assess damage.

Road closures remained in effect Wednesday evening, with Highway 120 shut between Sonora and Jamestown. Officials have set up a reception center at the Sonora Senior Center for evacuees. No injuries have been reported, but nearby residents are urged to stay alert for possible spotting in adjacent canyons as dry conditions persist.