The latest on Tuolumne’s 6-5 Fire and community aid events for those affected
The fire that destroyed much of historic Chinese Camp is now 94% contained. Called the 6-5 Fire, it began from a lightning strike on Sept. 2 at 8:24 p.m. near Red Hills, north of the Don Pedro Overlook Trail and Old Pedro Road.
Other Bee reporting described the incident as it hit Chinese Camp and destroyed 90 structures. This fire is the largest piece of the September Lightning Complex blaze, which is currently 99% contained at 13,869 acres in size.
Although the 6-5 Fire is still active and has burned 6,935 acres, road closures and evacuation orders have now been lifted. Agencies have limited the speed to 25 mph and urge caution as they work in the area on power lines and clearing road hazards.
The Tuolumne County Office of Emergency Services has a public assistance center at the Mother Lode Fairgrounds in Sonora. The center will operate on Sept. 13-14 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. It will help those impacted by the fire with resources and support for recovery. Representatives from the state, county, and nonprofit organizations will offer immediate help and information. For more information, call 533-6395.
In Chinese Camp, there will be a free community disposal event Sept. 12-13 to aid those affected in the cleanup process. Hosted by the Tuolumne County Public Works Department, Solid Waste Division, and Cal Sierra WM, the event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. will be in the parking lot of Chinese Camp Elementary School.
Residents are allowed to bring spoiled food and smoke-damaged debris for disposal; no fire debris will be accepted. Disposable garbage bags and reusable home and yard bags will be available for distribution while supplies last. For more information, call 209-533-5588.
This story was originally published September 12, 2025 at 12:45 PM.
