Fire Blazing in South Lake Tahoe

When I heard the news this morning that western part of South Lake Tahoe near Fallen Leaf Lake was on fire it just broke my heart. While I lived in Stateline during my exchange year, I often visited and drove through that area. Eleven years ago my host family and I faced another fire, on the valley side of Kingsbury causing us to evacuate in case the fire should jump over the ridge. It was a very frightening scene I'll never forget. Thankfully, back then we were spared.

I've looked for more information on the internet about the Angora fire and so far the Reno Gazette-Journal has the best coverage by far. If you live nearby and want to help you can find out more here. Once information on ways to donate is available, I'll publish it here.

UPDATE:

The Sacramento Bee also has a special report with much more information. From the RGJ comes this on how you can help:

Together for Tahoe donation drive is scheduled for 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday at the Atlantis Casino Resort's west parking lot, at the corner of South Virginia Street and Peckham Lane. Cash, nonperishable food, seasonal clothing, blankets, pet food and more will be collected. The organization is working through the Red Cross; bank account and tax-donation information will be announced later. Corporate and individual volunteers are needed. Call 224-7300 for more information.

A clothing drive for fire victims is sponsored by the West Shore Association in cooperation with Tahoe City PUD and the North Lake Tahoe Chamber of Commerce for fire victims. It is scheduled to run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at Rideout School and 4-7 p.m. Sunday at Commons Beach. Bring clothing, blankets, towels, anything that someone might need who has just lost everything. Volunteers are needed at Rideout School on Saturday and Sunday and at Commons Beach to accept the items.

The Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe is providing foster homes to pets of families displaced by the Angora Fire. If you can provide foster care for a dog, cat or other type of animal, or can make a donation of food, supplies or money, call 530-587-5948 or e-mail info@hstt.org.

UPDATE 2:

From the comments: more info, photos and links at OurTahoe.org