The Crozier Fire in northern El Dorado County, California, has already scorched more than 1,500 acres of land. The fire, which started after midnight on August 7, began northwest of Slate Mountain and quickly spread, prompting evacuations in the communities of Mosquito and Swansboro. As the blaze grew, additional evacuation orders and warnings were issued for Volcanoville, Quintet, and parts of Georgetown, Garden Valley, and Kelsey.

According to Cal Fire's incident update on August 8, the fire is raging in a remote area of the forest, surrounded by heavy timber and dense brush, making access challenging for emergency crews. However, firefighting efforts are in full swing, with Cal Fire deploying air tankers, helicopters, and ground resources to suppress the flames. Unfortunately, the hot daytime temperatures, gusty winds, and low humidity levels have intensified fire activity, making containment difficult.

Speculation about the cause of the Crozier Fire arose when Placerville Police officers arrested a 50-year-old man on suspicion of arson near a gas station on Forni Road early Wednesday morning. However, Placerville Police Cmdr. Dan Maciel confirmed that the arrest had no connection to the Crozier Fire or any other recent fires in the county. Currently, Cal Fire is leading the investigation into the exact cause of the fire, which remains under investigation.

As of Friday morning, the Crozier Fire was 5% contained, with more than 1,600 structures under threat. Fortunately, no homes or buildings have been reported damaged or destroyed thus far. Both Cal Fire Amador El-Dorado Unit and Eldorado National Forest are working in unified command to battle the blaze. Over 1,309 personnel, including 113 engines, 17 water tenders, 12 helicopters, 13 hand crews, and 13 dozers, have been assigned to the fire.

The El Dorado County Fairgrounds in Placerville have been transformed into a base camp for firefighters and equipment, leading to the closure of the grounds and skatepark to the public. The California Highway Patrol has also stepped in to assist with road closures, including Mosquito Road at Rock Creek Road, Rock Creek Road at Trail Gulch Road, Highway 193 at Shoemaker Road, eastbound Wentworth Springs Road at Citabria Lane, and westbound Wentworth Springs Road at Stumpy Meadows Reservoir.

Evacuation centers have been set up to assist displaced residents. The Cameron Park Community Services District is offering shelter for evacuees and their leashed or kenneled pets, while the El Dorado County Animal Services shelter is accommodating displaced animals. New Morning Youth & Family Services has also opened its Placerville shelter for children aged 6-17 who may be in need of assistance.

The Crozier Fire has not only brought about the displacement of residents but has also fostered a strong sense of community support. Various businesses and organizations, such as Thompsons Toyota, have extended their facilities and resources to help those affected by the fires. Local kennels and rescue groups have also taken to social media to offer temporary shelter for displaced pets.

To provide emergency relief, the El Dorado Community Foundation has opened the Crozier Fire Relief Application for residents under mandatory evacuation orders. Eligible residents can apply for one-time emergency funding of $300, which can be used for basic necessities like food, medication, and pet supplies. Proof of primary residency within the mandatory evacuation area is required for consideration.

The Crozier Fire continues to pose a significant threat to the area, and firefighters are battling the flames with sheer determination. The community, meanwhile, rallies together to support those affected by the evacuation orders. Communication and updates regarding the fire and evacuation zones can be found on the El Dorado County Sheriff's Office Facebook page and the Cal Fire incident page at fire.ca.gov/incidents/2024/8/7/crozier-fire.