Some evacuation zones in Paradise could reopen next week. Butte County Sheriff Kory Honea made that announcement Wednesday. He said that barring any setbacks from the coming weather system they expect to open zones 3, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, and 14 early next week. Those zones are in the southern and eastern part of the town. Officials say that Pentz Road would be reopened to allow better access to the ridge from the valley.

The Sheriff did not announce a time for the opening of the rest of Paradise, but Town officials believe the areas could be reopened in the next two to three weeks. However, that time frame could change.

Sheriff Honea also said Wednesday that Concow zones A, C, and D, along with Yankee Hill, North Pines, South Firhaven, Old Magalia, South Coutolenc, and Morgan Ridge B zones could reopen by the mid to late part of next week, barring any setbacks from the weather or other circumstances. Officials say the opening of those zones would result in the reopening of Highway 70 in that area.