Overview
- The blaze, which began Aug. 8 near Timber Top Trail, has burned about 5,269 acres and is roughly 21% contained as crews hold lines and mop up in key sectors.
- More than 2,000 personnel are assigned to the incident with roughly 165 engines, 44 crews, 29 dozers, 36 water tenders and a dozen helicopters supporting suppression and structure protection.
- Firefighters have used planned backburns and drones that drop ignition 'fireballs' to push fire toward established lines and Highway 1 so crews can reduce hot spots in steep, inaccessible terrain.
- The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office downgraded three evacuation orders to warnings while several other orders and warnings remain in effect and Carmel Middle School continues to serve evacuees.
- Highway 1 remains closed through the fire area between roughly mile markers 37 and 44.5 as crews clear debris and utilities and investigators with the U.S. Forest Service ask the public to submit photos or tips about the cause.