LAKE ISABELLA, Calif., On July 9th, 2024, at 4:33 p.m. Kern County firefighters were dispatched to Reeder Dr. and Harnage St. for reports of brush and possibly a structure on fire. The Battalion Chief arrived first on scene, finding two structures involved in fire and a grass fire spreading across the field behind the homes. Strong winds contributed to the fire’s tenacity and laid a wall of black smoke across the residential streets. With limited visibility, firefighters began their attack on the fire while also evacuating the surrounding homes. KCSO Deputies assisted the evacuation effort and firefighters from BLM and the USFS joined the firefight. Crews were assigned to structure defense and the vegetation fire. An exposure group was assigned to protect the neighborhood downwind from embers being cast through the air. Propane tanks, heavy accumulation of belongings in the yards and downed, energized power lines added to the complexity and the danger of the incident. Multiple concurrent incidents within Kern County affected the availability of additional resources and forced firefighters to work longer and harder without relief. Even in the afternoon heat, crews stepped up to the challenge.

Numerous surrounding homes were saved by the aggressive, well-directed attack from the firefighters. Unfortunately, the blaze did claim three homes.

No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is undetermined.

This was the second multi-structure fire in two days in the Lake Isabella area. Please continue to be alert to activities that can cause sparks. Maintain a clear, defensible space around your home and other structures on your property.