Butler II Fire: "Adventures" in Green Valley

The Butler II fire started Friday afternoon, Sep 14. I was driving down to Heather and Rob's when I noticed at least 20 emergency vehicles passing me on Hwy 18 near Lake Arrowhead. I called Jarod to see if he could find out anything. Neither of us expected to be evacuated the next morning!

These pictures where taken when we were allowed to return on Monday. Oddly, when we were evacuated, we couldn't see the fire or smoke, as it plumed tall on the ridge behind us. But, when we returned we could see it burning about a mile away from the lake. We were allowed to return at that point because the fire was somewhat contained. It was burning out of control when we were evacuated. (which makes it scarier to me because we couldn't see it or smell it at the point when it was most threatening.)


Helicopters flew over all day Mon and Tues, filling up the huge buckets from our tiny lake. The lake's water level was noticeably lower afterward.
It's pretty exciting to see the helicopters dip down, practically touching the water, as they refill. It's easy to see was a dangerous job these guys have. We could also see the fire planes flying right into the smoke, but we don't have good pics.