Mountain View Fire near Walker burns almost 21,000 acres; US395 remains closed

The Mountain View Fire near Walker, California has burned 20,879 acres according to the Mono County Sheriff's Office. There has been one fatality due to the fire which started Tuesday when a fallen powerline ignited dry brush. Winds drove the flames rapidly, finally stopping progress when rain started to fall overnight.

Fire operations report that damage assessments are underway and it could be days before its safe for residents to return. Evacuation orders are still in effect for Walker, Coleville and Topaz.

As of 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, US 395 from Bridgeport to the Nevada state line remains closed.