OES: Post-Dolan Fire threats pose “very high” risk to human life, safety
BIG SUR, Calif. (KION) The Monterey County Office of Emergency Services has released a report on the Dolan Fire that details potential risks and how to reduce the threats around the burn area.
The report, the Burned Area Emergency Response report, is based on field surveys and models used to assess the area.
Based on the findings, Monterey County OES said impacts from events such as debris flow, flooding or rock falls are very likely to impact human life and safety with major consequences. The agency said this poses a "very high" risk to human life and safety.
Roads, trails, campgrounds and other areas that are at the base of steep slopes or in steep and unstable headwaters are at risk of debris flows, rock fall, increased runoff and hazard trees, according to Monterey County OES.
The U.S. Forest Service will use the report to decide what measures need to be taken on federal lands affected by the fire, but non-Forest lands are the responsibility of managers or owners.
Homeowners near the Dolan Fire burn area can contact the National Resources Conservation Service for a free assessment and technical assistance. For example, they can assist with removing debris from stream channels, road culverts and bridges; reshape and protect eroded streambanks and correct damaged or destroyed drainage facilities. Homeowners can submit a request for an assessment here. It is also open to victims of the Carmel and River fires.
The Dolan Fire has burned 124,924 acres and is still 98% contained. The nearby Coleman Fire has burned 574 acres with no containment.
