Eight-Alarm Redwood, CA, Structure Fire Remains Under Investigation
San Francisco Chronicle
(TNS)
Jun. 3—A massive blaze at a structure near Redwood City on Monday morning has prompted an air quality advisory and forced the evacuation of residents up to several blocks away, according to authorities.
Redwood City fire crews were battling the eight-alarm fire at the 2700 block of Middlefield Rd., which began around 10 a.m., on the fifth floor of the building, according to officials with the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office.
Officials advised all civilians to avoid the area, and said deputies were evacuating nearby residents on Pacific and Calvin avenues.
The Bay Area Air Quality Management District issued an air quality advisory Monday for the areas surrounding the fire and downtown Redwood City. The smoke was expected to dissipate throughout the afternoon, the agency said.
Images posted to social media showed that the structure appeared to be a building under construction.
Sgt. Javier Costa of the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office said that 50 people had been evacuated from their homes Monday. Some were expected to be allowed back beginning Monday afternoon. The perimeter of the fire was still active around 2 p.m., he said.
Minutes later, sheriff's officials extended the evacuations to include those who live on Dumbarton Avenue, from the train tracks to Middlefield Road.
"If you live in this area, EVACUATE IMMEDIATELY," sheriff's officials posted on X.
Sheriff's officials said no injuries were reported, and that wind conditions presented a challenge for firefighters.
The area affected by the blaze is near several large retail locations, including Target, a Marshalls and a Costco.
This is a developing story. Check sfchronicle.com for updates.
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