Several spot fires erupted on the eastern edge of the Caldor fire as the growing blaze pushed closer to South Lake Tahoe, belching smoke that has caused record-breaking air pollution and spurring anxiety the fire could reach resort communities. None of the spot fires jumped over firefighters’ containment lines, and authorities have not issued evacuation warnings or orders for the Lake Tahoe area. The agency said the area averaged an air quality index of 251, which is considered very unhealthy, and declared a Stage 3 emergency. pic.twitter.com/YIShr0nW3H — Washoe County AQMD (@WashoeCountyAQ) August 23, 2021An air quality rating of 300 and above is considered hazardous — a level that many of the typically picturesque areas around Lake Tahoe far exceeded Monday. Winds will be coming from the southwest, likely pushing the flames northeast — toward Lake Tahoe.

Source: Los Angeles Times August 24, 2021 18:50 UTC