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California firefighters declared on Thursday that the largest wildfire in the state is now threatening the Giant Sequoia trees in the Grant Grove.
California firefighters declared on Thursday that the largest wildfire in the state is now threatening the Giant Sequoia trees in the Grant Grove.
The national treasure is being for now protected by the firefighters, with lines being cleared all around the grove and sprinkles being installed to contain the rampaging wildfire.
Already in its sixth week, the wildfire is further weakening ecosystems that fell prey to the four year drought. Sparked by a lightning strike, the wildfire quickly spread throughout, threatening communities and causing severe damage in its path.
According to Andy Isolano, spokesman for the California firefighters, the Giant Sequoia trees have endured much throughout their lifetime and could probably live through this stubborn wildfire as well. Nonetheless, it is not worth taking the chance as the drought the state is facing has taken its toll on all vegetation and wildlife in California.
Currently the flaming haze is within 5 miles of the Grant Grove. Hopefully the firefighters’ efforts will result in the fire being kept in safe distance from the Giant Sequoia trees.
The Giant Grove takes its name from General Grant. The 268 feet tall Sequoia is keeping vigil over the grove. But this is not the only grove in California. Many others are found in Sierra Nevada. Some of the trees here are even 3,000 years old.
Since it was sparked on July 31st, the California wildfire has turned 172 square miles to ash. Currently, firefighters estimate that they manage to contain approximately one third of the stubborn flames.
The Giant Sequoia aren’t the only ones threatened. The wild cats in Cat Haven, Fresno County are also in danger. As such, the premises are closing and the felines will be moved to another site located to the west of the King’s Canyon National Park. Three dozen felines will be moved here.
Residents in the area are also in stand-by, waiting for possible evacuation announcements.
In northern California another wildfire expanding to Amador County has turned six homes into ashes, as well as two outbuildings. After the firefighters announced that it has 20 percent has been contained, the wildfire continues blazing near Calaveras County.
Photo Credits: Pixabay
