Forward progress halted on Watts Fire in Fresno County, evacuation warnings still in effect

FRESNO COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) — Progress was halted following a wildfire in the Fresno County toll zone.

The Watts Fire broke out shortly after 4 p.m. Saturday on Watts Valley Road. CAL FIRE says it has burned at least 90 acres, destroyed two structures and is 45 percent contained.

Four crews of more than 60 people from Fresno and Kings County fire units are battling the flames. Officials say the steep terrain has created access issues.

“For the next two or three days, they're just going to continue to put out the hot spots around the fire and inside it, so people don't call back and the embers don't cross the containment lines and start a fire. another fire,” said Fresno County CAL FIRE Capt. Gary Couch.

As of Sunday afternoon, the Fresno County Sheriff's Office still had evacuation warnings in place for areas K104, K117 and K118.

Area K104, which is primarily along Watts Valley Road, was placed under evacuation order Saturday evening.

Watts Valley Road also remains closed as firefighters work to completely contain the situation.

CAL FIRE encourages residents to pack their travel bags, so that when these evacuation orders are issued, they can be ready to leave at a moment's notice.

For the complete evacuation map from the Fresno County Sheriff's Office, click here.

One firefighter suffered minor injuries, but has now been released from hospital and is expected to recover.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

This fire comes as temperatures in the Fresno County foothills reach at least 104 degrees over the weekend.

Stay with ABC30 for the latest details on this developing story.