A structure fire ignited in San Mateo County on the 2700 block of Middlefield Rd. in Redwood City yesterday, prompting urgent evacuation orders for nearby residents. The Redwood City Fire Department, supported by local law enforcement, managed the blaze, which has since been contained to the original structure.
According to updates from the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office on Facebook, the fire began around 10:15 a.m. on the building's fifth floor. The wind posed a significant challenge to the firefighting efforts. Those living on Pacific Ave., Calvin Ave., and now Dumbarton Ave.—from the train tracks to Middlefield Rd.—received directives to evacuate immediately. The Sheriff's Office has confirmed that no injuries were reported amid the incident.
For media inquiries and further announcements, a live update was planned by Menlo Park Fire leadership and the Sheriff’s Office. Reporters were asked to stage at 2710 Middlefield Rd.—the Fair Oaks Health Center—for the briefing. Additionally, a temporary evacuation center was organized at the Veterans Memorial Senior Center at 1455 Madison Ave., where evacuees could find shelter and assistance, contradicting earlier reports that suggested Red Morton as the site. Deputies assisted in redirecting residents to the correct location.
Throughout the day, the Sheriff's Office continued to provide updates via social media, including aerial photos of the #NorthFairOaksFire scene. By 3 p.m., the blaze was reportedly contained, and some residents started to return to their homes. "Emergency responders are beginning to allow some residents to return to their homes," the Sheriff's Office shared. "If you were displaced by the fire, or know someone who was, go to the Veterans Memorial Senior Center for information on who can return home."
As of 5 p.m. yesterday, most households were cleared to return, with support from emergency responders and the American Red Cross for those still displaced. The diligent and effective work by fire crews, law enforcement, and EMS was highlighted as it prevented any injuries from occurring during the emergency. The temporary evacuation center concluded its operations at 6 p.m., as stated by the county's emergency response team.
