Oakland Hills residents near Keller Avenue started receiving mandatory evacuation orders early yesterday afternoon. A vegetation fire called the Keller Fire had broken out near I-580.

The evacuation zones grew as winds picked up, and the fire spread quickly up the Oakland hillside. Soon, more than 500 Oakland residents were asked to evacuate while residents of the nearby Berkeley hills were encouraged — not mandated—to leave their homes for the evening.

At the height of the fire, around 200 firefighters were on the scene. This morning, crews are still working to extinguish the fire, but officials say it’s about 50% contained.

Oakland Fire Chief Damon Covington said evacuations had been lifted for many areas. Still, they’ve kept the areas near Campus Drive and the top of the ridge evacuated due to concern over high winds. For those areas still under evacuation orders, Covington said the fire department is “putting together a reentry plan for today, and we’re hoping to get them back in their homes today.”

Oakland Hills residents who have been evacuated or are near evacuation zones should monitor the warning systems throughout the day. Oaklandside has gathered information on what Oakland Hills evacuees should know in this evolving situation.

How do I check if my house is still in an evacuation zone?

You can check if you’re in an evacuation zone on this map. As of Saturday morning, only three zones in the immediate vicinity of the fire are under evacuation orders. This situation is evolving and could change as the weather changes and crews work to manage the fire.

Residents can download the Genasys Protect app to receive evacuation alerts and updates. You can also sign up for AC Alert to receive critical countywide notifications about fires and other emergencies.

I’m still in an evacuation zone. When can I go home?

The Oakland Fire Department announced this morning that they are hoping evacuees can return to their homes today.

As the situation evolves, watch for alerts from officials through the Genasys app and the AC alert system. Follow local news outlets for updates as they come in. If you live in an evacuation zone, do not return to your home until the evacuation orders have been lifted and officials say it is safe.

I was evacuated from my home yesterday, but now the orders for my area have been lifted. Am I in the clear?

Many of the evacuation orders for the area have been lifted. If your evacuation zone order has been lifted, you can return home at this time.

As of Saturday morning, OFD is reporting that many hotspots are still present in the area and that there is still “a lot of work to do.” Due to the weather conditions, things could change quickly, so those living near the fire should stay informed and be prepared for changes throughout the day.

If another evaluation order for your area is put in place, follow evacuation procedures and guidelines.

What should I know about evacuating?

If you are asked to evacuate, here is what officials say you should do.

Keep an eye on wildfire updates. Know what officials are saying, where you should go, and the evacuation plan for your area.

You should have an emergency bag with food, water, and essential items like documents and medications to take with you.

Don’t forget your pets. You may not be able to return for some time. All residents of your household should come with you as you evacuate.

Take one car to help reduce the likelihood of traffic jams on evacuation routes.

Listen to officials. Do not return home until firefighters and officials tell you it is safe to return.

Where are the current evacuation centers?

Evacuation centers have been set up in the following locations: