Update: Crews make progress on Clayton Fire in East San Jose that threatened homes

Crews make gains battling San Jose brush fire

Crews make gains battling San Jose brush fire 01:38

Crews in East San Jose are making progress on a brush fire burning in the South Bay that at one point threatened homes Thursday afternoon.

The fire, being referred to as the Clayton Fire, was first reported shortly before 3 p.m. Cal Fire units are at the scene along with additional San Jose Fire Department personnel.

Firefighters said the fire is burning in the area of Clayton Road and Via de la Vista. At last report it around 5 p.m., the fire was at about 66 acres and 20% contained. 

Early on, chopper video showed several homes where the edge of the fire had burned close to the front yards. The Cal Fire Santa Clara Unit deployed air support to assist with the fire, according to PIO Chelsea Burkett.

KPIX spoke to area resident Jeanene Rumsey, who said she called to report the fire early on.

“I’m glad that I did, because even in that short time it really got out of hand,” said Rumsey. “The way it was spreading it did make me nervous about the houses that were back there. I’ve seen it jump the canyon before, so it was pretty scary.” 

No evacuation orders have been issued so far. Authorities have not said whether they have any containment on the fire, but reduced smoke in the area indicated crews have made progress with their aggressive attack on the fire. 

Residents are being asked to avoid the area.

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