KERN COUNTY, Calif., It has been 11 days since lightning ignited the White and Rancho Fires. These fires were met with the full force of your Kern County firefighters and a formidable response from our friends with fire agencies around the state. There was a significant firefight as we defended Kern County communities. The fires grew rapidly as they consumed trees and vegetation, making their way towards the homes and livelihoods of our citizens. Alpine Forest, Paradise Valley, West Ranch, Oak Creek, Twin Lakes, Stallion Springs and Bear Valley Springs were threatened. Both fires also torched through largely untouched land within the Tejon Ranch.
Today, we are proud to share that these fires have been controlled, their spread has been stopped and nearly all firefighters have been released. We are extremely grateful for the Kern County firefighters that have labored day after day, with time off cancelled, to protect our county. We also would like to thank all the firefighters from neighboring departments who sacrificed their time and their bodies to assist us. The mutual aid system that we participate in, sending resources to other counties and jurisdictions, reciprocated and benefited us greatly. It was critical to the success of our mission to stop the fires while maintaining constant protection to the communities we serve. Last but not least, we would like to express our gratitude to the affected communities for supporting us even as they experienced the inconvenience and uncertainty that accompanies these unfortunate disasters. A special thank you to Tehachapi High School and the surrounding neighborhood for hosting a fire camp that sustained over 1000 firefighters for over a week!
White Fire: 5,536 acres and 98% contained.
Rancho Fire: 9,950 acres. 98% contained.
As we look ahead, we understand that wildfire season continues and we will all need to remain alert and prepared. Please sign up for ReadyKern emergency notifications at KernCountyFire.org. Also, make sure your go bags are packed and keep the defensible space around your home clear!
