Evacuation orders lifted for Cold Fire in Yolo County

WINTERS, Calif. (KGO) -- A fire west of Winters in Yolo County has grown to 4,700 acres and is 15 percent contained. Mandatory evacuation orders were lifted this morning for about three dozen homes.

The fire is burning in the same area as the Monticello Fire from two years ago. Crews are concerned about erratic winds hampering efforts.

Residents got the all clear this morning, they were allowed back into the Golden Bear Estates after being evacuated Tuesday night. There was much relief that the Cold Fire is no longer a threat to this area.

"Everybody is feeling happy now. They did a mighty fine job keeping fire on that side; they do it every year said Ben Rosales, resident.

But that side is an incredibly tough side for firefighters.

"We are just moving to an area challenge for us steep rugged nasty terrain. It's very dry out here and that mixed with the winds create headaches for us," said CAL FIRE Spokesperson Paul Lowenthal.

Smoke could be seen billowing up near the Monticello Dam this morning. Firefighters say this is an indication that the fire could whip up here later this afternoon, so they will be focusing their air attack here to try and calm it down.

"We're expecting erratic winds and winds in different directions, so that's a concern of ours," said Lowenthal.

The fire has scorched 4,700 acres in the rural area off Highway 128 near the Canyon Creek resort. People who camp near the dam or live in the area, say it is tough to watch this beauty burn.

"It's a bit sad because it disturbs people, but mostly wildlife, horses, dogs, pets and it really disturbs them more than it disturbs us humans," said John McWilliams, resident.

The fire is burning in a north area in a very steep area. No lives or structures are at risk.