Jerusalem Fire in Lake County now 3,000 acres

LOWER LAKE, Calif. (KGO) -- A wildfire burning that started Sunday afternoon in Lake County has exploded to 3,000 acres and has prompted mandatory evacuations. A California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection official said the new fire was reported about 3:30 p.m. near the community of Lower Lake.

PHOTOS: Smoke visible from Jerusalem Fire in Lake County

A new fire that started new Lower Lake Sunday afternoon has prompted officials to order evacuations for residents along Jerusalem Grade Road east of the Soda Creek Bridge.

The Lake County Sheriff's Office issued a mandatory evacuation order for the Jerusalem Valley area east of Soda Creek. Authorities say Jerusalem Valley Road is closed to all traffic at Spruce Grove Road and fire personnel and emergency vehicles will be working in the area.

The wildfire is being fought aggressively with five air tankers and three helicopters. Some resources from the Rocky Fire have been diverted to this new wildfire.

The Lake County Office of Emergency Services says an evacuation center for both wildfires is available at Middletown High School at 20932 Big Canyon Road, and a temporary shelter for pets and animals has opened at 6885 Old Highway 53 in Clearlake.

Stay with ABC7 News for the latest details on this developing story.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.