MP18 Fire forces evacuation warnings, Highway 96 closure near Hoopa

A fast-moving wildfire erupted in Humboldt County, triggering evacuation warnings and a highway closure as flames reached the roadway.

The MP18 Fire burning north of Hoopa had grown 300 acres as of Saturday morning after it was first reported Friday just after 7 p.m., according to Cal Fire.

Highway 96 is completely shut down in both directions between postmiles 15.5 and 19.5.

Caltrans said the highway will remain closed throughout Saturday, with officials expected to reassess the situation Sunday morning.

Two helicopters and an air tanker were already battling the blaze Friday night, with additional firefighters and aircraft expected to arrive Saturday. 

The danger isn’t limited to the flames.

Smoke has settled over communities along the Highway 96 corridor, with air-quality sensors near Hoopa registering unhealthy readings Saturday morning. 

A heat advisory is in effect for interior Humboldt County, with temperatures expected to soar to between 100 and 105 degrees.

Evacuation warnings were issued in three zones over a “potential threat to life and/or property,” according to Cal Fire.

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