Groveland Fire Erupts: Evacuations Underway Near Yosemite

A rapidly spreading vegetation fire near Groveland prompted evacuation orders on Monday afternoon. The blaze, known as the Priest Fire, originated from a vehicle fire on Old Priest Grade, quickly engulfing nearby vegetation. Authorities described the fire's spread as dangerous and critical, with multiple emergency units responding.

As of Monday afternoon, the fire was estimated to be approximately 10 acres. Evacuation orders were in effect for Priest Station Cafe and the area along Priest Coulterville Road down to the Hetch Hetchy entrance. An evacuation warning was also issued for residents in the Big Oak Flat area. Significant traffic disruptions occurred, with Highway 120 reduced to one-way and Old Priest Grade closed to all but emergency vehicles. New Priest Grade remained open only for those evacuating. No injuries or structural damage had been reported, and the cause of the initial vehicle fire was under investigation.