Downed Power Line Sparked Irving Fire In Marin County: Officials

MARIN COUNTY, CA – A wildfire that scorched dozens of acres and prompted evacuations this week in Marin County was sparked by a downed power line, fire officials said Wednesday.

The 152-acre blaze, called the Irving Fire, broke out around 7 p.m. Monday under Mount Barnabe Lookout in the area of Samuel P. Taylor State Park, according to the Marin County Fire Department. As of Wednesday afternoon, the fire was 80 percent contained.

Also see: Fire Burns 152 Acres, Forces Evacuations In Marin County

About 150 structures were threatened at the height of the fire, but no structures were damaged.

Residents on Mountain King Road, Portola Avenue and Alamo Way to Barranca Road were evacuated. An evacuation warning was also issued for residents in the upper part of Forest Knolls and Lagunitas. By 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, all evacuation orders and warnings were lifted.

The fire was caused by a downed power line, officials announced Wednesday morning.

An estimated 54 homes remained without power Tuesday night, including homes in the following areas: 200-300 block of Arroyo Road, 100 block of Portola Avenue, Samuel P. Taylor State Park area, and equipment on Barnabe Ridge. Pacific Gas & Electric estimated that homes in those areas could remain without power until 5 p.m. Wednesday.

Marin County Fire anticipated crews would be actively working through at least Thursday.

Photo credit: Marin County Fire Department