Amid a red flag warning, a near 20-acre fire near Hallelujah Junction sparked in the brush just off US395.
The first reports came in around 5:30 p.m., indicating that the brush was on fire just 30 feet from the roadway. Multiple agencies responded, including ground support, tankers, and a helicopter.
The blaze shut down one lane of the highway, and traffic was redirected as the fire approached. Billowing smoke reduced visibility.
Reports indicate that a creek and roadway helped contain the fire, which had forward progress stopped at just under 22 acres.
Crews are continuing to mop up the Petersen fire, which, as of this morning, is reported as 75% contained, and an investigation is underway to determine its cause. It is believed to have been human-caused.
