Residents have been evacuated as a fast-moving wildfire continues to threaten homes in Tuolumne County, northern California.

The blaze, known as the 6-5 Fire, broke out on Monday, September 2, near Red Hills, north of Don Pedro Overlook Trail and Old Pedro Road. Officials said it was triggered by a lightning strike.

By Thursday, the fire had already scorched 6,984 acres, with crews continuing efforts to contain the spread.

Mandatory evacuation orders cover Six Bit Ranch and Six Bit Gulch Roads, all of Red Hill Road, Don Pedro Dam Road, Old Don Pedro Dam Road, and the entire town of Chinese Camp.

Evacuations also include areas along Highway 120 from Chinese Camp to the 120 Bridge, roads east of Highway 108 between J59 and Highway 49, plus Menkee Hess Road, Shawmut Road, Rojo, and parts of Chinese Camp north of Highway 120.

Dramatic footage captures the eerie scene as the skies turn orange from the flames, with smoke billowing across the area.

Firefighting planes were also seen dropping retardant over the affected zones.

Officials urged residents to leave immediately if they felt unsafe, even without a formal order.

An evacuation shelter was opened at the Sonora Senior Centre, where small pets were accepted. A separate facility for large animals was established at the Motherlode Fairgrounds.