On Tuesday June 30 at approximately 1:42 p.m., a call was received by the Kern County Fire Department for a structure fire in the 4500 block of Juniper Lane in Mt Mesa. Approximately 100 firefighters responded to the incident, from Kern County Fire Department, US Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management.

Upon arrival, fire crews were faced with a significant fire to the rear of the property which was spreading throughout the structure and included a 350-gallon propane tank in the rear yard which was venting the stored gas. This fire was very quickly spreading to adjacent structures. Fire crews made entry into the affected areas to knock down the developing fires and protect the surrounding properties. Other fire crews established a water supply to the scene. A total of 7 structures received damage, an additional 4 properties received minor damage to their fences.

Due to the heat and flying fire brands, 3 spot fires were started in the grass east of the location. Further equipment arrived to deal with the developing grass fire, including a water dropping helicopter from the US Forest Service and was under control by 3:10 p.m.

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Fire crews were able to save an estimated $1,900,000.00 of property and equipment. However, the fire destroyed approximately $465,000.00

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Red Cross has been informed and will be helping the displaced family of 2 adults and 1 child.

There were no reported injuries. The Kern River Valley Citizen Emergency Response Team (CERT) responded to provide rehab to the firefighters on scene.

Kern County Fire Department would like to remind residents of the importance of hazard reduction and creating a defensible space to help protect your home.

For more news and information visit www.kerncountyfire.org