A large-scale wildfire broke out in the historic town of Chinese Camp in Tuolumne County, California, destroying thousands of acres and damaging dozens of homes, prompting authorities to issue immediate evacuation orders and close surrounding highways.

The town is known for its history tied to the “Gold Rush” in the mid-19th century and was a center for a prominent Chinese American community. However, its location amid forests and mountainous terrain makes it vulnerable to fires, especially amid California’s prolonged drought.

According to the Forest and Fire Protection Department, the fire started early Tuesday morning, with fierce Santa Ana winds reaching speeds of up to 130 km/h contributing to its rapid spread. By Wednesday morning, the fire had consumed more than 7,700 acres and damaged at least 20 homes, with containment at only 10%.

Authorities deployed over 1,000 firefighters supported by helicopters, water tankers, and Canadair planes to extinguish the flames. California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency in the county, deploying 65 fire trucks and seven additional helicopters.

Temporary shelters were set up in nearby towns such as Sonora and Jamestown to accommodate displaced residents amid fears of severe economic losses due to the town’s heavy reliance on historical tourism.

The cause of the fire, named the “Tuolumne Telegraph Fire,” has not yet been determined, but preliminary investigations suggest it may have been triggered by downed power lines or dry branches rubbing together under the influence of the winds.