Inn Fire Triggers Urgent Evacuations and Highway Closures Near Mono Lake

Wildfire burning near Mono Lake with fire trucks on scene

News Summary

An urgent evacuation has been ordered in Mono City as the Inn Fire spreads rapidly, affecting around 540 acres. High winds have complicated firefighting efforts, leading to the closure of Highway 395, which is crucial for local traffic. Evacuation centers are established to assist displaced residents, and the cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

Inn Fire Triggers Urgent Evacuations and Highway Closures Near Mono Lake

It was a tense afternoon on May 22, as the Inn Fire erupted shortly after 3:30 p.m. in the picturesque landscape near **Mono Lake**. The flames quickly grew fierce due to the dry winds, making their way through an area that sits right at the intersection of Highway 395 and Mono Inn Road, just north of the small community of Lee Vining.

Fire Details and Immediate Impact

By Friday morning, May 23, the fire had already scorched around 540 acres. Unfortunately, the fire’s rapid growth has prompted mandatory evacuations in the nearby community of Mono City, which has a population of about 332 residents. The evacuation order was swiftly issued by the Mono County Sheriff’s Office at 6:25 p.m. on May 22.

Residents of Mono City are now required to leave their homes, which stretches the evacuation area from the historic Tioga Lodge to the iconic Mono Inn. It is noteworthy that the Mono Inn has a rich history, having been built back in 1921.

Damage and Ongoing Firefighting Efforts

As the fire raged on, it made its way across Highway 395, leading to safety concerns that forced the closure of this crucial roadway. Currently, one structure has been reported to be impacted by the flames, but officials have yet to confirm whether this was a residential or commercial property.

The firefighting response is robust, involving multiple agencies including the Inyo National Forest, the Bureau of Land Management, CalFire, the Mammoth Lakes Fire Department, along with several local volunteer fire departments. A significant amount of resources, including air support, strike teams, and hotshot crews, have been deployed to combat the fire.

Challenges Faced by Firefighters

High winds posed a constant challenge for the firefighting teams, but by Friday morning, conditions appeared more favorable as winds became calm. Despite this, safety was a top concern, leading officials to close U.S. Highway 395 from Lee Vining to state Route 167. This closure is not without its complications, as drivers now face significant detours that could extend travel times by up to three hours. Southbound traffic is being rerouted to state Route 167 toward Hawthorne, Nevada, while northbound traffic is advised to take U.S. 6 from Bishop.

Evacuation Centers Established

To assist those affected by the evacuation, evacuation centers have been set up at the Bridgeport Memorial Hall and the Lee Vining Community Center. These centers will provide shelter and support for residents during this tough time.

Historical Context

Interestingly, many residents in the area may still remember the recent hardships they faced in 2023 when similar closures occurred due to avalanche damage on Highway 395 near Mono Lake. In light of this, a sense of community and resilience prevails as residents navigate these challenging circumstances.

Current Status and Ongoing Investigation

As of now, the cause of the Inn Fire is under investigation. Officials have indicated that power lines need to be removed before the highway can safely reopen, adding an additional layer to the ongoing measures. It’s essential for everyone to stay informed and follow guidelines from officials as the situation develops.

Stay safe, everyone! Together, we’ll get through this.