Evacuations underway in California as wildfire grows in Tuolumne County

TUOLUMNE COUNTY, Calif. (NBC, KYMA) - Evacuations are underway in California as firefighters battle a rapidly growing wildfire in Tuolumne County.

The Dove Fire sparked Sunday afternoon near Highway 108 and Mill Villa Road, just outside Sonora.

Cal Fire says the blaze has burned at least 166 acres, triggering mandatory evacuation orders for several neighborhoods, with warnings in effect for nearby communities.

Officials have opened an animal evacuation center at Tuolumne County Animal Control, while large animals are being moved to the posse grounds.

Fire crews continue working to slow the fire's spread as residents leave the area.

To keep up-to-date on the fire, click here.