Vegetation fire scorches land east of King City

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) said crews responded to a vegetation fire Tuesday near the intersection of Highway 198 and Pine Valley Road in King City.

The fire burned through 25 acres of land along the roadside of Highway 198 at about 4:30 p.m. Cal Fire crews were able to stop the spread of the fire within an hour.

At least 72 firefighters were dispatched, including a battalion chief, a fire investigator, three air craft, one helicopter, seven fire engines, two water tenders, two dozers, and two hand crews.

No evacuations, road closures or injuries occurred during the fire. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

According to Cal Fire officials, due to the heavy seasonal rain this year, tall grass has sufficiently dried up and can be easily ignited.

Crews recommend pre-trip vehicle inspections for all drivers including trailer safety chains, tie-down cables, tools, loose metal vehicle parts, cargo or other items that could come into contact with highway pavement and cause sparks.