Fire Erupts at Moss Landing Power Plant

A significant fire erupted at the Vistra Power Plant in Moss Landing, California, on Thursday afternoon, prompting mandatory evacuations and road closures. The fire started around 3 p.m. at the energy storage facility, and by evening, the Monterey County Sheriff's Office had ordered residents in several zones to evacuate, impacting approximately 1,500 individuals. Emergency responders are battling the fire, which has generated hazardous black smoke, and a temporary evacuation center has been established at the Castroville Recreation Center. Full road closures are in effect on multiple routes, including Highway 1 at Salinas Road. Authorities emphasized the importance of compliance with evacuation orders for public safety. No injuries have been reported as crews continue to manage the situation.