Bay Area/ North SF Bay Area/ Crime & Emergencies
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Published on April 25, 2024
Firefighters Quell Blaze on Drifting Houseboat at Lake Berryessa, Saving Surrounding Napa LandsSource: CAL FIRE/Napa County Fire Department

Lake Berryessa was the scene of a dramatic fire rescue operation as CAL FIRE/Napa County Fire units responded to a houseboat ablaze Wednesday afternoon. The incident occurred at Markley Cove, a popular recreation spot in the scenic wine country.

According to an X post from CAL FIRE LNU, the flaming vessel broke away, drifting about half a mile from the marina before beaching and causing a smaller vegetation fire. In a struggle to contain the blaze, firefighters quickly launched suppression efforts on land and water.

The fire on the houseboat had the potential to spread quickly, threatening not only the natural landscape but also nearby property and lives. However, firefighters successfully extinguished the 40x40 spot of burning vegetation before it could grow into a larger wildfire.

Efforts to finally extinguish the houseboat fire were underway as resources were dedicated to bringing the situation under full control. In updating the public on the situation, fire officials assured that no injuries had been reported. The response team was set to remain on the scene for at least an hour to address any potential hotspots accordingly.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and further details about the houseboat's occupants or the extent of the damage to the vessel were not immediately available.