July 13, 2021 - On July 12, 2021, Sheriff Tyson Pogue proclaimed a local emergency for Madera County due to the significant impacts of the ongoing River Fire. This morning, July 13, 2021, the Madera County Board of Supervisors signed a resolution ratifying and extending the proclamation of local emergency.

The River Fire is burning on the Madera and Mariposa County line off Road 800 in an area known as Bailey Flats, between Raymond and Ahwahnee. The fire is currently projected to be 9,500 acres and 15% contained.

The River Fire has strained our local resources and necessitates a proclamation of a local emergency in order to maintain our standard level of public protection to the county. By proclaiming a local state of emergency, we are formally requesting help from state and federal officials.

Sheriff Pogue reflects, “We continue to closely monitor this evolving situation. The extreme heat and winds have proven to be challenging for not only fire personnel, but those working to support those efforts. This proclamation will provide much needed resources to support our community in Madera County.”

Source: Madera County Sheriff’s Office