Minden, NV…The Douglas County Board of Commissioners has declared a State of Emergency as a precautionary action due to the Tamarack Fire burning in parts of Alpine County, California, Lyon County, Nevada and Douglas County, Nevada. The declaration will be submitted to the State of Nevada and will allow regional partners to speed up the delivery of resources required to respond more effectively to the emergency and meet the needs of the community.

Many Federal, State, and Local government agencies including East Fork Fire, Douglas County, and the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office as well as organizations and businesses are cooperating to respond to the fire. Evacuations have occurred in Douglas, Lyon and Alpine Counties, and other communities in Douglas County have been warned about potential evacuations.

The Tamarack Fire crossed the state line a short distance into Douglas County, Nevada on July 21, 2021. On July 22, 2021 it was reported that a spot fire from the Tamarack Fire had crossed U.S. Hwy 395. The fire is approximately 58,000 acres and is 4% contained as of July 23, 2021. Over 1,300 personnel are working on the fire.

Douglas County provided the primary locations for shelter evacuations at the Douglas County Community and Senior Center, Topaz Ranch Estates (TRE) Community Center. On July 21, 2021 Lyon County opened its doors to Smith Valley High School, taking in Douglas County residents when the TRE Community Center was closed due to potential fire danger.

The Type 2 Great Basin Incident Management Team #3 assumed command of the fire on Sunday, July 18 at 6 a.m. The Rocky Mountain Type 1 Incident Management Team transitioned with the Great Basin Team and took command of the fire at 6 a.m. on Tuesday, July 20.

Douglas County is asking residents to stay vigilant, pay attention to emergency phone alerts, and have a plan in place for evacuations. In addition, plan for power outages and road closures. Have a transportation plan for animals and livestock. Think about fuel, medications, documents, keepsakes, and groceries needed. Think about loved ones on oxygen or anyone who may need assistance leaving their home.

Should evacuations occur, residents will receive an emergency alert notification their phone. Residents who do not have a cell phone or landline, please keep in contact with friends, neighbors and family.

Fire information (maps, road closures, evacuations, etc.) can be found at:
Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7674/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tamarackfireinfo/
Twitter: @HumboldtToiyabe #TamarackFire
Fire Information Number: 775-446-5438

Douglas County specific information, including evacuations and changes in County services can be found at: https://www.douglascountynv.gov/cms/One.aspx?portalId=12493103&pageId=17856213

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