Posted by: thepinetree on 06/30/2008 09:01 AM
Updated by: Kim_Hamilton on 06/30/2008 10:45 AM
Expires: 01/01/2013 12:00 AM
:
Calm in the Tuolumne/Calaveras Unit....The North Mountain Fire is at about 2697 Acres
San Andreas, CA...It was thankfully very calm locally fire wise over the weekend. One small spot fire off of J59 in Tuolumne County was the only activity we were aware of. This hopefully gave our local crews a bit of rest before the big 4th of July weekend. The Forest Service to the South of Us is still battling the North Mountain Fire that has grown to 2697 acres and has crossed into Yosemite. The latest stats on this fire is enclosed...
Overview:
At approximately 3:48 PM on Saturday June 21, 2008, lightning started approximately ten small fires, the largest of which is now 1,810 acres and burning in steep, rugged terrain with difficult access north of the Tuolumne River.
Current Situation:
Significant fire behavior was observed last night on the southeast flank of the fire. Spot fires were observed and extinguished south of the Tuolumne River. Crews continue to construct fire line and are being supported by four helicopters. Progress continues to be slow due to the steep, rugged terrain. Other crews are improving contingency lines and mopping up in the area. The North Mountain Fire Camp is complete and serving the needs of firefighters at Drew Meadow. A fire retardant mixing base is in operation at Pine Mountain Lake Airport. Residents will hear and see increased helicopter activity as more aviation equipment is utilized.
The North Mountain Fire has now crossed into Yosemite National Park. The Park Service will work closely with Interagency Team 2 to manage the fire. Specific inquiries regarding Yosemite can be directed to the Yosemite Media Relations Office at 209/372-0248. Fire
Information is available at 209/ 372-0480 or on the web at www.nps.gov/yose.
Incident Priorities:
• Firefighter and public safety is our core value.
• Maximize protection of resources at risk.
• Provide timely public information on current and predicted fire conditions.
• Provide for productive relationships with local, County, State and Federal officials.
Evacuations:
No evacuations are in place. Contingency plans have been developed to evacuate organizational camps, campgrounds, and forest recreational residences should the need arise.
Road Closures:
A road closure is in effect on Mather Road east of Camp Tawonga to Camp Mather. Access to Camp Mather and Yosemite Nation Park can be made through Evergreen road. “Firefighters and equipment will be working in the area” signs are posted on Cherry Lake Road to let motorists know of their presence…requesting that they drive slowly and advising them of the possibility of smoke in the area. Coordination with Federal, State and local officials will take place should the need arise to extend the closure.
Areas Closed:
The Preston Falls Trail is closed.
Weather, Fire Behavior and Smoke Conditions:
Anticipated thunderstorms did not surface as predicted. Today’s weather will be hot, dry with winds from the southwest. Increased fire behavior is likely. Smoke may be visible throughout the area.
Challenges:
• Securing additional resources and assets.
• Steep rugged terrain and heavy fuel loading.
• Long travel distances for crews and equipment.
• Potential extended evacuation times.
• Spotty cell phone and radio coverage.
Progress:
Containment grows slowly as crews work in extremely steep, rugged terrain. The Type 1 helicopter will increase opportunities to expand our containment lines. Additional crews have arrived and more will continue to arrive. Fire crews will be more visible as they continue to construct fire line where it is safe.
North Mountain Fire Cooperators include Stanislaus National Forest, Yosemite National Park, Tuolumne County Sheriff’s Office, Bureau of Land Management, CAL FIRE, Hetch-Hetchy Power, Tuolumne County Emergency Operations Center.
Southern California Interagency Incident Management Team
Ron Woychak, Incident Commander
Fire Status: Active
Cause: Lightning
Location: Stanislaus National Forest, Groveland Ranger District
Acres Burned: 1,810
Percent Contained: 30%
Full Containment Expected: No Estimate
Date Started: 6/21/08
Resources: 11 hand crews, 34 engines, 2 dozers, 5 water tenders, 4 helicopters, air tankers on order
Personnel Assigned: 494
Injuries: 8
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