Friday Northern California Wildfire Roundup: Lowell, Wragg, Willow, Swedes

6:14 p.m.  Governor Jerry Brown has declared a state of emergency for California because of wildfires burning throughout the state. Brown says a severe drought and extreme weather have turned much of California into a “tinderbox.”

Brown is ordering the California National Guard to mobilize to support disaster response and relief efforts. The Guard will coordinate with state and local agencies where major fires are burning.  

12:15 p.m.  Several wildfires continue to burn in Northern California. Capital Public Radio continues to monitor these blazes. See our updates below.

In Placer and Nevada Counties, the Lowell Fire is about 75 percent contained at just over 2,303 acres. Evacuation advisories are still in effect for Steep Hollow Creek Community, from Chalk Bluff Road to Banner Quaker Road and the Buckeye Ridge Community. "The Tahoe National Forest is maintaining a forest closure with specified exemptions for the fire area," says Cal Fire. Smoke may continue to impact communities in the foothills until the fire is put out. 

In Solano and Napa Counties, firefighters have contained the Wragg Fire at 92 percent. The fire has now charred 8,051 acres near Lake Berryessa. Mandatory evacuations have been lifted. The wildfire has destroyed two outbuildings and damaged three outbuildings and one house.  Road closures are in effect at Mix Canyon Road and only residents with identification may access Pleasants Valley Road.

The Willow Fire in Madera County is now at 4,394 acres and is 40 percent contained.

In Butte County, the Swedes Fire is at 400 acres and is 80 percent contained. All evacuations have been lifted in the area of the of this fire.