ESPARTO, CA – A dramatic scene unfolded in Esparto, California, as a news helicopter captured a massive explosion at a warehouse believed to house thousands of fireworks. The incident began just before 6 p.m., sending fireworks into the sky in rapid succession.
Esparto, a small community located about 30 miles west of Sacramento, became the focus of an intense firefighting effort. Governor Gavin Newsom’s office quickly mobilized resources to help contain the blaze, which had spread rapidly within the facility.
As night fell, the situation remained critical. Firefighters were stretched thin, with the fire chief unable to provide updates due to the ongoing efforts to control the chaos. The explosion triggered multiple spot fires, scorching 80 acres and damaging commercial buildings and homes in the vicinity.
One resident described the force of the blast that shattered French doors and left plaster strewn across the floor. The smoke plume soared 15,000 feet into the air, prompting officials to establish a one-mile evacuation zone around the warehouse.
Unlike Los Angeles County, where fireworks are banned, Yolo County permits state-approved fireworks. The cause of the explosion remains unknown, as does the name of the facility. Authorities are still investigating whether there were any injuries and what type of pyrotechnics were involved.
A fireworks expert explained that various factors could influence how quickly the fire spread, including the type of packaging and materials used. Each firework can act as a potential bomb, and the chain reaction might continue for hours or even days if not promptly controlled.
Governor Newsom has deployed air and ground resources, alongside arson investigators, to address the situation. Residents are urged to stay clear of the area as emergency teams work tirelessly to bring the fires under control.