Santa Rosa, CA : Firefighters responded to a fast-moving wildfire east of Santa Rosa on Monday, July 13, as the Ledson Fire prompted evacuation orders and a large aerial and ground response near Kenwood.
The wildfire ignited in the area of North Pythian Road north of Highway 12, east of Santa Rosa. Initial reports indicated the fire was spreading through grass, brush, and timber under dry summer conditions. Fire aircraft, including air tankers and helicopters, were quickly dispatched to support crews on the ground.
Authorities issued a mandatory evacuation order for Zone SON-3H3 as firefighters worked to slow the fire’s advance. According to incident updates shared throughout the afternoon, the blaze reached approximately 10 to 14 acres before crews successfully stopped its forward progress. The latest reports indicated the fire was 10% contained, with firefighters continuing to strengthen containment lines and monitor for hot spots.
Residents reported seeing large smoke plumes from across the Santa Rosa and Kenwood areas, while multiple firefighting aircraft remained overhead during suppression efforts. Officials credited the rapid response from ground crews and aviation resources with preventing further fire growth.
The cause of the Ledson Fire has not yet been announced, and the investigation remains ongoing. Fire officials continue to urge residents to stay informed through official emergency alerts and follow any evacuation instructions as conditions can change rapidly during wildfire season.