Martinez Brush Fire: 50 Acres, Evacuation Lifted

MARTINEZ, CA — Winds howled, fanning a fast-moving brush fire that broke out in a Martinez neighborhood Sunday afternoon. Authorities gave an immediate evacuation order for residents near Macalvey Drive, Morello Avenue, and Sunnybrae Drive, and north to Vine Hill Way, the Contra Costa County Fire Department reported.

As of 6 p.m., the evacuation for Alhambra Avenue had been lifted.

"Alhambra Ave is closed both directions and evacuation zone slightly larger," authorities said.

According to officials, 40 structures were protected during the blaze.

By 6 p.m., Contra Costa Fire reported that roughly 50 acres had burned, and that forward progress has stopped.

Residents alerted nearby fire departments that smoke and flames were visible at 4 p.m. Winds in the area blew at a sustained 25 miles per hour, according to the National Weather Service.

Fire crews from the Oakland and Hayward departments assisted the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District.

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