One of the main routes between the Bay Area and South Lake Tahoe reopened Tuesday morning after it was closed a month ago by destructive wildfire.
Caltrans fully reopened Highway 50 to the public at 8 a.m. between Kyburz and Meyers in El Dorado County.
The portion of the roadway was closed on August 20 due to the Caldor Fire which has burned nearly 220,000 acres and forced the evacuation of South Lake Tahoe.
The highway reopened limitedly on Monday to local and commercial traffic to allow property owners to survey the damage along the corridor.
The Caldor Fire erupted on Aug. 14 and Highway 50 was shut down nearly a week after, causing major traffic jams as residents heading westbound from South Lake Tahoe were rerouted.
The Caldor Fire, the 15th largest blaze in California history, is currently 76% contained, and officials expect to reach full containment on September 27.
Parts of the Highway 50 corridor remain under an evacuation area with roadblocks set up along the highway.
The El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office noted that many crews remain in the region, cutting down large trees and putting out smoldering hot spots. If returning residents see these personnel on their property, they should make sure they are aware of where they are all times to ensure their safety.
Related
