Cal Fire continues to battle blaze; evacuated residents hope to return home soon

Hundreds of residents affected by the Soberanes Fire packed Carmel Middle School, hoping for good news.

“It’s kind of difficult trying to live out of suitcase, and you never know how many days you’re going to be gone,” said Palo Colorado resident Marilyn Krone.

Krone has been staying with family after she was evacuated on Saturday.

“It’s scary because we don’t know if we have a home when we get back,” said Krone.

Krone, along with hundreds of others, is eager to find out what’s next.

While the blaze continues to sweep through the Big Sur mountains, Cal Fire is working to stop it from spreading to the Carmel Highlands community.

For many, there is still a rough road ahead.

“It’s always sad when you see somebody who has lost their belongings,” said Cal Fire captain John Clingingsmith.

Cal Fire said crews are starting to gain control of the fire, but there’s still a lot of smoke and many hot spots burning.

“The more information we can get to them, the more reassurance we can get to them, whether it’s protecting their home or just the fact that we’re working to get them back to see their property,” said Clingingsmith.

Thinking about her home brings Krone to tears, and there is only one thing she asks for.

“Just pray everything comes out OK,” said Krone.