GREENFIELD — South Monterey County faced an unexpected challenge in the heart of a warm summer afternoon Tuesday.
Around 2 p.m. on July 23, the usually tranquil fields near Greenfield were suddenly ablaze as a fire broke out on Metz Road. Fueled by strong winds, the fire rapidly spread to an alarming 1,100 acres by evening with only 5% containment.
The first signs of trouble for many residents in Greenfield, King City and Soledad were the sight of billowing smoke and the smell of burning vegetation. Cal Fire and local fire departments swiftly mobilized, leading the effort to contain the blaze.
A large plane order was made, and the sight of aircraft dipping to release water and fire retardant against the backdrop of the setting sun created a dramatic and intense scene.
Residents watched with bated breath as firefighters, donned in their protective gear, fought tirelessly against the advancing flames. Thanks to their swift and strategic actions, no structures were immediately threatened.
Greenfield police urged locals to avoid the affected areas, ensuring the safety of both residents and emergency crews.
As the evening progressed, there was a glimmer of hope. By 8 p.m., Cal Fire reported that the fire’s forward progress had been halted. However, with containment still low, the fight was far from over.
Ground crews worked overnight, and containment jumped to 70% as of 9:15 a.m. Wednesday.
“The Metz Fire remains at 1,100 acres. Thanks to ground crews working overnight, containment is now at 70%,” reported Cal Fire BEU on Wednesday. “Resources will stay on scene today for mop-up and patrol due to expected warm weather.”
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
For continued updates, visit the Cal Fire incident page.
Article contributed by David Orta, with additional reporting by Ryan Cronk.
