Cal Fire crews battle wind-driven Toll Fire in Napa County, evacuations ordered

Evacuations were ordered due to a wind-driven wildfire, named the Toll Fire by Cal Fire, burning in Napa County near Calistoga. The fire had consumed approximately 50 acres by midday, with firefighters utilizing seven fixed-wing aircraft and three helicopters to combat the blaze. Evacuation orders were later downgraded to warnings for specific zones, including areas north of Old Lawley Toll, south of Hwy 29/Oat Hill Rd, and east of Lake County Hwy. Residents like Sam Lovold were forced to evacuate, with some seeking refuge at the Calistoga Community Center after receiving evacuation orders. The fire, which started around 9:42 a.m. in the vicinity of Old Lawley Toll Road, caught many residents off guard, including witness Little, who described the sudden appearance of firefighting helicopters near his hotel. Despite initial shock, some evacuees like Little expressed relief as the day progressed, noting the efforts to contain the fire. Cal Fire officials highlighted the challenging conditions posed by low humidity levels, mild-to-moderate winds, and the area's topography, contributing to the fire's difficulty to control. As the fire continued to burn in a southwest direction, updates on evacuation orders and warnings were provided by Cal Fire throughout the day. Residents shared their experiences of being alerted to the fire and the subsequent evacuation process, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and vigilance during such emergencies. While the situation remained dynamic, efforts by firefighters and emergency responders were ongoing to manage the Toll Fire and ensure the safety of residents in the affected areas.