Fire crews continue to battle the Oak Fire near Willits, Highway 101 reopens

WILLITS, Calif. (KIEM) — Firefighters continue to battle the Oak Fire burning just north of Willits in Mendocino County, and evacuations orders and warnings remain in effect.

According to Caltrans, crews have cleared the roadway and Highway 101 from Longvale to north of Willits has been reopened. There are still road closures in the Brooktrails and Willits area. Avoid the area if possible to allow for emergency personnel access and also give residents a clear evacuation route.

Now looking at the fire itself, Cal Fire says the Oak Fire has burned 863 acres and is 25% contained. It’s burning in steep, rugged terrain with fire crews working to secure containment lines around the perimeter of the fire.

At this time, all evacuation orders and warnings remain in effect for surrounding communities. A full list can be found here.

Two evacuation centers have been established. One at Willits High School at 299 Main Street and Baechtel Grove Middle School at 1150 Magnolia Street. Willits High School is also taking animal evacuations.

So far, 2 structures have been destroyed. The fire first broke out Monday afternoon. The cause of the blaze is under investigation.