Fire Prompts Evacuations Near Moss Landing Power Plant

A significant fire broke out at the Moss Landing Power Plant in Monterey County on Thursday, leading to evacuation orders for nearby residents. The Monterey County Sheriff's Office issued these orders around 6:30 p.m. for specific areas south of the Elkhorn Slough and west of Castroville Boulevard. Residents were advised to close windows and doors and shut off air systems due to smoke concerns. The North County Fire Protection District is actively responding to the fire, with reports indicating that the affected building has been evacuated, and a hazmat team is on standby despite the fire being classified as non-hazardous. The Castroville Recreation Center has been designated as an evacuation site. Road closures are also in effect to facilitate emergency response efforts.