When the residents of Eureka evacuated in a frightening rush because of the oncoming Iron Fire on Saturday, they did so not knowing whether they’d ever see their homes the same way.
On Thursday, days after flames came within feet of many homes in the small mountain town, residents were grateful to make their long-awaited return.
As of Friday morning, 40,614 acres have burned with only 27% containment. Officials also announced they will be lifting the road closure on US 6 between Elberta and Eureka at Noon on Friday.
Kimberlee Clem was among the hundreds who left in a hurry, having nothing but her son, dog, and the clothes on her back.
“That night was horrible,” Clem recalled. ”But then, each day as it goes, they said the wind could change, and it could come back.”
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