Fireworks Warehouse Explosion Near Sacramento Ignites Massive Fire and Forced Evacuations
A violent blast at a licensed pyrotechnics warehouse near Esparto sent debris skyward, sparked spot fires across 80 acres, and prompted a one‑mile evacuation as emergency crews rushed in.
A powerful explosion erupted early Tuesday evening at a licensed fireworks warehouse in rural Yolo County, just west of Sacramento, igniting a fierce blaze that scorched roughly 80 acres and shattered windows miles away. The initial blast, followed by a series of secondary detonations—as fireworks continued to explode—sent a towering plume of smoke reaching nearly 15,000 feet into the sky.
The Yolo County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that emergency responders swiftly imposed a one‑mile evacuation zone around the site near Esparto and Madison, closing off multiple roads to protect nearby communities. “All we felt was everything shake,” shared resident Bryan Sandoval, recalling the shockwave that rattled homes in the area.
Firefighters from Esparto, Madison, Winters, and Cal Fire tackled the main inferno and numerous spot fires fuelled by live fireworks scattered across adjacent dry grasslands. By around 7:30 p.m., crews had successfully halted the fire’s spread, though they toiled through the night to eliminate hot spots and secure the perimeter .
While the warehouse was known to operate under a licensed pyrotechnics permit, the exact cause of the explosion remains unknown. The State Fire Marshal’s arson and bomb investigation unit, supported by drone teams, is now combing through the rubble for clues.
As of now, officials have not reported any injuries or fatalities, though mounting concern from families of those believed to be near the site has prompted calls for information. PG&E reported that over 2,200 customers lost power in the evacuation zone, with most service restored by early Wednesday morning.
State and local agencies continue to monitor air quality implications due to the large plume of smoke, while stress levels in local communities rise just days ahead of July 4. Authorities urge residents to avoid the area and adhere to evacuation orders until further notice.
Emergency response teams remain on scene into the night, working to cool smoldering debris and secure the area for investigators. Updates are expected later today once officials complete their initial assessments.
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