Soberanes, Monterey County

Soberanes, San Benito-Monterey Unit, Cal Fire. IMT 2 (Arroyo). Seven miles northwest of Big Sur, CA. Timber, chaparral and tall grass. Minimal fire behavior.

October 12, 2016 at 6:21 PM

Los Padres National Forest and Central Coast Incident Management Team announced this evening that, after 83 days of intense firefighting, the Soberanes Fire has been 100 percent contained. The Soberanes Fire was ignited by an illegal campfire on July 22 in the Garrapata State Park. While the 132,127 acre fire is one-hundred percent contained, fire officials caution that this does not mean the fire is 100 percent controlled, despite the fact it remains contained within its current perimeter and has not grown in size for several days.

The Monterey Ranger District of the Los Padres National Forest remains closed to public access. The only recreation sites that remain open are Plaskett Creek and Kirk Creek Campgrounds, Pfeiffer Beach, Sand Dollar Beach and Willow Creek Day Use areas. All trails are closed within the Ventana and Silver Peak Wilderness Areas.

October 10, 2016 at 9:00 AM

Hotshot crews continue to construct line around the Marble Peak flare-up, which occurred Friday afternoon. An additional Hotshot crew will be inserted today to assist with suppression efforts. A new helispot was built near Higgins Creek for easy transportation of hotshot crews into the fire area. Interior hot spots may exhibit active fire behavior as warming and drying trends continue through today. Inland valley temperatures are likely to reach the upper 80s with wind gusts up to 25 mph.

A cooling trend, accompanied by increasing relative humidities, should produce favorable conditions early next week. Suppression repair work continues in the north and south zones. Efforts have been temporarily halted in the east zone and portions of Arroyo Seco for additional resource analysis.

Out of 380 miles of fireline repair, 264 miles (69 percent) have been completed. Chipping of felled trees and piles of brush is continuing along the Coast Ridge Road. Crews are working their way north on dozer lines along Indians Road. Contingency lines from Arroyo Seco Road south towards Fort Hunter Liggett are being repaired.

Despite the hot, dry conditions and moderate winds, the fire exhibited very little movement yesterday. Interior hot spots are expected through today as heat and moderate winds continue. The public should be aware that smoldering areas will continue to put up smoke, but are well within the fire perimeter.

This will likely continue until a season ending rain saturates the area. Two hot spots are within the steep, rocky areas north of Ventana Cone and the deep canyons in the upper reaches of the Big Sur River.

Additional pockets of unburned vegetation remain and may continue to burn. These areas are being closely monitored by fire managers with assistance from helicopter patrol.The Monterey Ranger District of the Los Padres National Forest remains closed to public access. The Soberanes Fire is no longer affecting California Highway 1. The road is open through Big Sur from Monterey to San Luis Obispo.

October 5, 2016 at 8:23 AM

Helicopters with infrared cameras identified hotspots in the Miller Creek and Calaboos Creek area Tuesday. Hotshot crews worked their way into those locations to extinguish the hot spots. This effort will continue over the next several days as the weather becomes warmer and drier.

Work to secure containment southeast of Church Ranch continues, lessening the chance of fire spreading in that direction. Fire managers have begun to remove the structure defense equipment around the Tassajara Zen center, feeling more confident the threat has been reduced.

Smoke will continue to be visible from the steep rocky areas north of Ventana Cone where the fire hasn’t moved in days, but continues to smolder in the rocks and sparse fuel at the top of the ridge. Fire managers plan to keep an eye on this area as well as the smoldering fuels along the North Fork of the Big Sur River. With the arrival of warmer and drier temperatures, additional hot spots are anticipated to be discovered, and will be dealt with.

October 4, 2016 at 8:02 AM

Effective this morning at 8 a.m., the Monterey County Sheriff’s Department has modified the evacuation order for Tassajara Road from Chews Ridge south to the end of the road at Tassajara Hot Springs. This area will now be reduced to an evacuation warning. The Monterey Ranger District of the Los Padres National Forest remains closed to public access.

Fire managers are confident in the work completed by hotshot crews over the weekend and have marked the perimeter on the map from English Cabin to Church Ranch with black line to indicate containment.

Hotshot crews were successfully inserted into the Calaboos Creek and Miller Creek areas to work directly on the fire line eliminating hotspots along the fire’s edge. This work will be the same as what was accomplished between English Cabin and Church Ranch.

The fire is hung up in the steep rocky areas north of Ventana Cone where it hasn’t moved in several days. This is patrolled daily by helicopters to keep fire managers appraised of the situation. Smoldering fuels and a persistent burning log along the North Fork of the Big Sur River, prevents our ability to mark that portion of the fire’s perimeter as contained.

Crews continue to haul excess equipment, pull hose, and water pumps off of the line on the northeastern flank of the fire. Suppression repair is underway in this area and along the fire line towards the Arroyo Seco area. Firefighters will continue to patrol these areas as they assist with suppression repair efforts. Hoselays south of Arroyo Seco will remain until fire managers are sure they are no longer needed. Suppression repair is also on hold in this area until dozer lines and hand lines are no longer necessary.

A major wood chipping effort is underway along the Coast Ridge Road to eliminate piles of cut trees and brush left over from constructing a firebreak along the ridge. Berms have been removed from the edges of dozer lines to eliminate the water-channeling effect. Water bars have been constructed to divert runoff from firelines. This dirt work will be covered with the chipped vegetation to lessen surface and gully erosion and to restore conditions to pre-fire drainage patterns.

October 3, 2016 at 7:55 AM

Hotshot crews made good progress on containment efforts along the 8-mile stretch between English Cabin and Church Ranch. Crews are working on the ground with support efforts from water dropping helicopters to contain this section. The hottest part of the fire continues to be in the area north of Ventana Cone where steep inaccessible terrain is making access difficult.

Suppression repair work continues along the east side of the fire where there is no longer a threat of fire burning beyond containment lines. Hoses and other fire suppression equipment is being removed from areas where this equipment is no longer needed. Fire lines are being repaired as conditions allow. Structure protection work continues near Tassajara, while efforts continue to contain the fire near English Cabin and Church Ranch.

Lingering clouds continue along ridgetops with mist and drizzle in the morning bringing higher humidities, more clouds are expected later in the day today.

October 2, 2016 at 8:52 AM

Hotshot crews were busy Friday catching the fire as it moved slowly (creeping and smoldering) in the English Cabin area. The fire was able to expand about a quarter of an acre before firefighters were able to catch it and get a hose lay around it. On nearly an 8-mile stretch of fireline from English Cabin to Church Ranch, hotshot crews worked on mop-up and expanding the width of the perimeter. Helicopters, equipped with buckets to drop water, supported crews as they constructed containment lines between stretches of cold black areas where no hotspots were discovered and areas of hot line. Hotshot crews who had completed their 14-day assignment yesterday were replaced with fresh hotshot crews to continue the work.

Another flare up was noticed well within the containment lines on the west side of the fire but fire managers were able to get firefighters on the ground to extinguish it. Along the eastern flank, crews continued to mop-up, back-haul excess equipment and patrol for hotspots.

Suppression repair, which is fixing things that were damaged while putting the fire out such as gates, fences and roads continued yesterday. It also includes pulling vegetation back onto dozer lines and hand lines that were cleared down to mineral soil for use as firebreaks and contingency lines. This repair work is well underway on the western, southern and northeastern perimeters of the fire.

The next cold front will move in today, approaching from the north, and will be stronger than Saturday’s. The morning will start off sunny and clear but north winds 10-15 mph will bring in clouds causing the temperatures to drop and the relative humidity to rise by early afternoon. Once the front moves through it will remain cool and cloudy. No measurable rain is forecast for the fire area Sunday, but a drizzle or mist will develop making things damp.

October 1, 2016 at 10:51 AM

There were no significant events to report Friday with no increase in acreage or perimeter growth. Hotshot crews remain busy working directly along the fireline from English Cabin to Church Ranch mopping up to increase the depth of perimeter in that area. The hotshot crews in place today are timing out and will be replaced with fresh hotshot crews to continue the work.
The ridge above Big Sur showed no smoke during yesterday as helicopters equipped with infrared equipment sought out hotspots. Retardant drops were made to reinforce the containment line on the southwest finger of the fire along the Coast Ridge Road in anticipation of strong winds this weekend.

The dry cold front moved into the area later than expected late Friday night but it brought a strong push of northwest winds and cooler temperatures. Winds Saturday morning will be northwest to northeast between 20-25 mph with gusts up to 30 mph impacting the fire area. The winds will shift to northwest 15-25 mph in the afternoon with cool but dry air mixing for relative humidities in the teens. Another front will move through Sunday with stronger winds but cooler temperatures and significantly higher relative humidities, which will contribute to decreased fire behavior.

September 30, 2016 at 8:39 AM

The estimated containment date for the Soberanes Fire has been adjusted to October 15. The fire has been burning in Monterey County since July 22 that was started by an illegal campfire in the Garrapata State Park. Incident managers adjusted the date after a thorough evaluation of the fire and projected weather conditions. The containment date was previously estimated for September 30.

Here are facts about the fire and the conditions affecting the fire’s containment.

Current Situation – Change in Containment Date

·         Fire containment dates are always an estimate.

·         Current favorable weather changes and decreased fire behavior have allowed the incident managers to make significant progress on containing the fire; containment is up from 52% two weeks ago to 92% today.

·         The favorable weather conditions and decreased winds have mitigated and reduced fire behavior. This is allowing firefighters to safely access the fire’s perimeter. The change to direct attack of the fire will reduce the estimated total to 135,500 acres – a reduction of 46,000 acres.

·         Firefighters have completed a containment line around 168 miles of the fire perimeter. Construction of an additional 14 miles of line will fully contain the fire. This is estimated to take an additional two weeks beyond the initial September 30 estimated containment date.

·         As containment grows and fewer resources are needed, Fire Incident Managers are reducing logistical resources. On Wednesday, the Fort Hunter Liggett camp was closed, and the Andrew Molera State Park camp was demobilized from a full camp to a minor support camp (showers and sleeping facilities to reduce drive times). Two fire camps remain. Costs will be lessened as resources are reduced.

Post-Containment:

·         Even after 100 percent containment is achieved, the Soberanes Fire will continue to burn in isolated pockets inside of the containment lines until a “season ending” rain occurs, likely in December. Firefighters will continue to monitor the contained fire and be prepared to attack any flare-ups until the fire is fully controlled (no active fire is inside of the containment line).

·         Once the fire is fully contained, the public may still see smoke due to isolated pockets of fuel burning in the interior of the contained fire in the Ventana Wilderness. However, due to the remoteness of the wilderness and the decreased amount of fire, smoke impacts will be reduced.

September 30, 2016 at 7:00 AM

Thursday, Firefighters have been focusing on the interior portion of the fire in the Pine Valley area towards the Tassajara Road. Crews have been using infrared devices to detect hot spots that they have been extinguishing with the support of helicopters dropping water and retardant.

A dry cold front approaching the area will bring west to southwest winds in the morning that will increase by midday and become more northerly through the night. Highs will be in the upper 70s in the high country and mid-80s in the valleys. The relative humidity will be in the mid 20 percent range but increase as the marine effect moves in overnight. This cooling trend will continue through the weekend but will give way to a gradual warming trend next week.

Firefighters will be taking advantage of the cooler weather to increase their containment which is at 92 percent Thursday evening.

September 27, 2016 at 11:02 AM

Islands of unburned vegetation will continued to burn in the Church Creek area. This is due to the fire cleaning up areas within the containment lines. Firefighters will be focusing today on keeping the fire from crossing Tassajara Road. Retardant was used along ridge tops from Pine Falls to Tassajara to keep the fire from spreading south out of the Church Creek area. Crews will be working direct on the fireline, assisted by helicopters.

The fire’s activity on other portions of the perimeter was limited to creeping and backing. Fire behavior is expected to be similar to yesterday’s but temperatures will be slightly cooler today and the rest of the week.

Firefighters will improve containment lines in the southeastern area seeking and extinguishing hot spots. Along the southwestern side of the fire, crews will continue to monitor the perimeter as the weather may bring changes to fire behavior.

Work is ongoing on the east side of the fire to repair damage from earlier suppression efforts. Suppression repair also continues on the west side.

The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office lifted the evacuation warning yesterday for the east side of the fire near Arroyo Seco. The evacuation order for Tassajara Road from Chews Ridge to the end of the road at Tassajara Zen Center is the last remaining warning or order in effect.

A fuel truck pulling a trailer was involved in an accident on the Carmel Valley Road near the Ranch helicopter base. The driver was not injured. The trailer went off the road spilling 300-500 gallons of aviation fuel. California Highway Patrol, local fire departments and responders from the Soberanes incident assisted at the scene.

September 27, 2016 at 9:56 AM

The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office has lifted the following evacuation warning as of noon, September 26, 2016: From the east side of the fire near Arroyo Seco, southwest of East Carmel Valley Road starting at the intersection of East Carmel Valley Road and Piney Creek Road, extending east to the Arroyo Seco Road.

The evacuation order still remains in effect for Tassajara Road from Chews Ridge south to to the end of the road at Tassajara Hot Springs.

In addition, the Monterey District of the Los Padres National forest is still under a Forest Closure Order. For more information please go to the Los Padres National Forest web site at http://tinyurl.com/z89mhgh.

September 23, 2016 at 8:34 AM

There will be a community meeting at 6pm on Saturday, September 24th at the Arroyo Seco Fire Station/Community Center, 46700 Arroyo Seco Rd. Please join California Interagency Incident Management Team 4 who will be updating the Arroyo Seco Community with the latest information regrading the Soberanes Fire.

No new growth to the fire perimeter despite high winds on ridge tops and erratic winds in valleys and intersecting drainages. Interior pockets of vegetation deep within the containment lines continue to burn. Exceptional overnight RH recovery allowed for the reinforcement and continued building of containment lines. The wind tested perimeter will allow for more aggressive firefighting tactics and strategy.

September 22, 2016 at 9:05 AM

High winds with gusts as high as 35-40 mph are expected to continue through today. A dry cold front will create challenges in all areas of the Soberanes Fire, particularly along drainages that align with wind direction. Steep terrain and drought-stricken fuels increase the likelihood of difficult control efforts.

High winds overnight were counteracted by higher than expected relative humidity, limiting fire spread. Continued high winds are likely to increase intensity along the fire edges. The winds also will test the containment lines and could cause increased activity in seemingly dormant areas of the incident.

Firefighting efforts on Wednesday were focused on two spot fires burning outside primary containment lines. The spot fires were the result of wind-blown embers from within the containment lines. Neither spot fire expanded on Wednesday. Aggressive mop-up operations will continue today.

Line-building burnout operations, which were highly successful in recent days are largely on hold until weather conditions are more favorable. In the face of difficult conditions, efforts today will be to successfully hold established fire lines. In all cases and at all times, safety of firefighters and the public are paramount.

Evacuation orders and warnings remain in effect in the eastern areas of the fire. Information on evacuations is available at http://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/4888 (click on the Announcements tab).

Air monitoring is being conducted throughout the incident. Communities affected by drift smoke include Tassajara,Carmel Valley, Cachagua, and Arroyo Seco..

A community meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 24, at the fire station in Arroyo Seco, 46700 Arroyo Seco Road.

September 21, 2016 at 7:37 AM

Planned actions:

Fire Suppression and slop-over containment will continue on the east side of the fire near Chews Ridge.

Aggressive mop-up over the next operational period will continue in preparation for the upcoming wind event/Red Flag Warning.

Offensive firing will be put on hold until weather, fuels and topography are back in alignment for burning operations.

On the west side of the fire crews will continue to hold and secure control line along the North Coast Ridge Road, and continue to improve dozer line on the ridges on the west edge of Wilderness area, along the Coast Ridge Road.

Utilize aerial assets to check fire spread and provide adequate depth of firing operations.

Last night at approximately 8:00 p.m., an unexpected wind change occurred, pushing wind driven embers from the burning operation, over the dozer/containment line just north of Chews Ridge. Hand crews and engines staged in the area immediately responded to fight this new spot fire. Due to a rise in relative humidities, this spot did not grow significantly overnight. This morning crews and aircraft are working this spot fire which is about 200 acres. This spot fire caused the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office to initiate a new evacuation order and 2 new evacuation warnings in this area. The evacuation order is on the east side of Tassajaro Road from Chews Ridge to Bruce Ranch and from Bruce Ranch east along Anastasia Canyon to Carmel Valley Road and from Carmel Valley Road south from Anastasia Canyon to Tash Ranch. The evacuation warnings were issued for the area north of Carmel Valley Road from Hastings Preserve to Cahoon Ranch as well as for the area north of Carmel Valley Road from Cahoon Ranch east to Tash Ranch.

September 19, 2016 at 8:30 PM

Firefighters have made strong progress on the Soberanes Fire, as evidenced by the increase in the containment level to 67%. That is an increase of 15 percent since September 13. The increase is largely due to weather conditions that contributed to favorable burnout· operations. Activity is predominantly in the south-southeast areas of the Soberanes Fire. The burnouts are key to the firefighters’ success over the past days in widening and strengthening the indirect· containment line.

The fire continues to burn in remote, rugged terrain, including in the Ventana Wilderness. Firefighter and public safety remain the priority in every situation.

Heavy smoke in the area on Sunday was the result of an atmospheric inversion that held smoke from the burnouts in the valleys. Area residents will continue to see smoke columns and atmospheric smoke today.

Winds in the region changed today, with flows now from the south and southwest. The change may mean more erratic winds affecting the fire and pushing smoke toward the east side of the fire. Continual monitoring of weather and evaluation of forecasts will be used to determine when conditions allow for burnouts.

All evacuation orders and warnings remain in effect on the southeastern side of the fire.

September 17, 2016 at 8:42 AM

The Soberanes Incident is unique in the fact that the sheer amount of uncontrolled fire perimeter changes constantly with the varying influences such as weather, fuels, topography and alignment.

Current uncontained fire perimeter is 95 miles with a total planned 191.1 miles to reach containment objectives.

7,194 ACRES on CDF – San Benito-Monterey Unit (CA-BEU)
71,,247 ACRES on Los Padres National Forest (CA-LPF)

Weather:

West Operational Area:

Upper ridge building over the area will allow marine layer to re-establish near the coast around 1000′, but should not impact the coast. Expect northeasterly winds again continuing into mid-morning, giving way to breezy westerly winds in the afternoon along coastal ridge. Transport winds will still come from Northeast, so East Operations smoke will move over Western operations Area. The upper ridge will continue to warm and dry through the weekend.

East Operational Area:

High pressure strengthens over the region and will bring a strong subsidence inversion during the overnight hours. Main impacts will be poor overnight humidity recovery. Ridge winds will largely come from the north to northeast and will still pick up short periodic northwest winds as afternoon lower elevation sea breeze winds develop.

Forecast Tonight:

Temps 60-70 active fire area.

Winds: North to Northeast 5-10 mph gusts to up to 18 mph along the coastal ridge.

September 16, 2016 at 6:53 AM

There was minimal fire activity overnight. Firing operations continued when fuels were receptive.

A community meeting was held Thursday, September 15 at 6 PM at the Arroyo Seco Fire Station and Community Center.

The southeast head of the fire that has progressed into the upper reaches of the Arroyo Seco will continue to put up smoke from the larger fuels in the drainages. The fire has potential to flare up and move the fire upslope. The heat from the burnout operations along the Coastal Ridge Road has fairly good depth and will continue moving downhill into Indian Valley.

September 15, 2016 at 2:05 PM

Fire crews will continue executing a strategic plan to methodically burn out vegetation to support the existing indirect fire line on the eastside of the fire. Indirect line is a fire line constructed away from the hot edge of the fire. Burn out involves intentionally burning vegetation from the indirect fire line. The operations will be on Chews Ridge and progress northwesterly toward the existing containment line. Over the days ahead, crews will continue burning out the existing indirect line, forming a new containment line. The majority of the burnout operations will be ignited by individual fire crews using hand-held ignition devices.

The plan calls for creating a fire line that will prevent the fire from escaping the Ventana Wilderness Area. There is no intention to ignite all the unburned vegetation inside the Wilderness, just the perimeter.

The plan also includes protecting structures located inside the main indirect fire line. The public can expect to see increasing amounts of smoke as the burn out operations progress and the fire grows more active over the coming days and nights.

On the southern coastal side of the fire, crews will continue to secure established containment lines.

The fire containment has increased to 55%. The amount of uncontrolled fire perimeter changes constantly with the varying influences such as weather, fuels and topography. As burning of the indirect fire line continues the containment percentage will increase. The fire remains within existing containment lines.

All evacuation orders and warnings remain in effect.

September 14, 2016 at 7:56 AM

The Soberanes Fire transitioned from the Alaska Incident Management Team to California Interagency Incident Management Team 4 at 6:00 A.M.

Last night firefighters successfully held the fire within indirect lines (firelines constructed away from the hot edge of the fire) and strategically ignited fires along portions of the indirect fireline. The fire also remains within existing containment lines. Main actions for today will be to continue strategic burning operations in the morning along the Coast Ridge Road, protecting structures in the Arroyo Seco area, and patrolling the fire area by air. Firefighters have also begun restoring bulldozer lines constructed early in the firefight in the northwestern area of the fire to prevent erosion and reduce other impacts.

On the coastal southwest side of the fire, crews continued to build bulldozer lines along the Coast Ridge Road for use as future control lines. Today, firefighters will continue securing this indirect control line as they progress to the south with firing operations; keeping the fire north of Rodeo Flats. Retardant has also been placed along Indians Road, about one and a half miles east of Anderson Peak.

On the east side, firefighters continue to focus on the Arroyo Seco area by pre-treating indirect lines with fire retardant and continue to protect structures. The strategy is to keep the fire in the Ventana Wilderness, west of Carmel River and south of Willow Creek. Historic fire lines, constructed to suppress previous fires, are being reopened to minimize the effects to wilderness.

Yesterday evening, approximately 100 people attended a public meeting at the Arroyo Seco Fire Station and Community Center. Another community meeting will be hosted in Arroyo Seco on Thursday, September 15, at 6 [p.m.

September 11, 2016 at 10:07 AM

The Soberanes fire is still within the containment lines.

As predicted yesterday, instability in weather conditions produced significant fire behavior in several locations, prompting an Evacuation Order for Tassajara Road from Chews Ridge south to the end of the road at Tassajara Hot Springs. The remainder of Tassajara road, north from Chews Ridge to Carmel Valley Road remains in an evacuation warning. The fire is active on the ridge above the North Fork of the Big Sur River two air miles west of the Tassajara Zen Center and is active above Lost Valley Creek three air miles southwest of Arroyo Seco.

An Evacuation Warning has also been issued along the east side of the Soberanes Fire for residents southwest of East Carmel Valley Road from the intersection of East Carmel Valley Road and Piney Creek Road extending to Arroyo Seco Road. An evacuation warning is a precautionary notice that an Evacuation Order may become necessary.

In preparation for possible similar conditions today, containment lines are being reinforced utilizingaircraft for water and retardant drops. On the west side of the fire, a successful firing operation was conducted along North Coast Ridge Road near Anderson Peak. If conditions are favorable, firing operations are possible again today to extend and deepen containment lines.

September 10, 2016 at 10:11 AM

High pressure over the fire on Friday brought dry conditions with light winds. Temperatures were near the seasonal normal for mid-September. Today, high pressure remains established over the fire area bringing moderate southwest winds and higher temperatures. Expect fire behavior to increase during the day. The fire is now moving through the heavier brush and dead trees from the 2008 Basin Fire. Unstable weather is predicted with a slight chance for late afternoon or early evening thunderstorm activity. The chance of dry lightening is low, but the impact could present a challenge.

The fire remains active in the Zigzag Creek, North Fork of Big Sur, and Cienega Creek. Fire is spreading at the bottom of a slope in the North Fork of Big Sur River and to the northeast above Deer Valley. Helicopters were used to slow or check fire spread.

Structure protection preparations continued on Partington Ridge and south from Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park to Dolan Road. The fire continues to be monitored in the Big Sur and Pick Creek drainages and resources were moved to the area, including a group for initial attack. Managers looked for opportunities to secure indirect line through firing operations, but yesterday no ignition occurred due to winds.

On September 6th, there were two drone intrusions into the Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) that is in effect over the fire area. Both drones were spotted by fire line personnel and on both occasions the drones were grounded without incident. The public is reminded that it is illegal to operate drones within a TFR. For details on the Soberanes Fire TFR go to: http://tfr.faa.gov/save_pages/detail_6_3158.html. The objective is to provide a safe environment for firefighting aircraft operations.

September 9, 2016 at 8:53 AM

Despite cooler temperatures and marine moisture in the morning at low elevations, open fireline became active by late morning with upslope runs carrying to ridgelines above. Aircraft was used to check fire spread in several areas.

Most activity was terrain driven through the burn period.

The most active burning was on the southern end of the fire. Fire continues to spread actively both down drainage toward Lost Creek and upslope on the slopes and ridges above it, both east and west. There was some active burning in areas at the bottom of Pick Creek beneath the area burned out yesterday.

There was also aggressive burning in unburned interior areas such as Cienega Creek and the North Fork of the Big Sur River. Managers continued to increase resource capacity on the east side of the fire in response to fire spread. Structure protection planning in that area was finalized. Managers also continued to scout opportunities for evaluation points and geographic locations that have successfully held previous fires.

The uncontained fire edge in Willow Creek did not show signs of significant growth today. Managers continued collecting data on previously used indirect lines on the southeast side of the fire. Previous fire control action points were scouted to be utilized as contingency lines.

Structure protection actions continued on Partington Ridge and south from Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park to Dolan Road.

September 7, 2016 at 10:50 AM

The fire remains active in areas where growth occurred yesterday on the southern front of the fire, as well as areas burning along the northern side of the North Coast Ridge Road near Partington Ridge. Weather is expected to be as dry and hot as yesterday, with inland areas possibly reaching 100 degrees. The fire is expected to continue to be active on the south and southeast perimeters.

There was continued growth in Zigzag Creek, above the head of Higgins Creek and on the slopes above Pick Creek. Fire is now established on the north-facing aspect of Willow Creek to a point south of the Tassajara Zen Center. The fire is still approximately 2 ½ miles south and west of the Zen Center.

Managers began collecting data on previously used indirect lines east of Arroyo Seco in the event the fire continues spreading in that direction. Crews monitored the fire in the Big Sur and Pick Creek drainages and plan to continue holding actions on indirect control line.

Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) personnel have completed erosion and flooding modeling and are preparing presentations and reports for forest close-out and ICP briefings.

Evacuation Orders and Warnings: An evacuation WARNING along the Pacific Coast Highway was expanded Monday effective at 6 p.m. to include an area south of Anderson Canyon along Highway 1. The new evacuation warning includes the Big Sur-Partington/South Coast Center Area and applies to all residents and businesses east of Highway 1 starting at the intersection of Highway 1 and Grimes Canyon, extending south to the intersection of Highway 1 and Dolan Canyon. This area is bounded to the east by North Coast Ridge Road and includes all residents and businesses on Dolan Ridge Road. The WARNING in place is due to warmer, drier weather that has increased fire activity on the east side of North Coast Ridge Road. An evacuation WARNING remains in place for Tassajara Road from Carmel Valley Road to the Tassajara Hot Springs Zen Center. An evacuation ORDER remains in effect for North Coast Ridge Road from mile marker 1.5 to Marble Peak at the end of the road. Access to the businesses in the Carmel Valley and along Highway 1 in Big Sur are mostly unaffected. Please stay alert and watch out for vehicles entering the highway along your route.

September 6, 2016 at 9:50 AM

An evacuation WARNING along the Pacific Coast Highway has been expanded to include an area south of Anderson Canyon effective 6 p.m. on Monday, September 5, 2016.

The new evacuation warning includes the Big Sur-Partington/South Coast Center Area and applies to all residents and businesses east of Highway 1 starting at the intersection of Highway 1 and Grimes Canyon, extending south to the intersection of Highway 1 and Dolan Canyon. This area is bounded to the east by North Coast Ridge Road and includes all residents and businesses on Dolan Ridge Road.

An evacuation warning is a precautionary notice that an evacuation order may become necessary if the threat increases.

The new warning is due to warmer, drier weather that has increased fire activity on the east side of North Coast Ridge Road.

All residents under a warning should prepare to leave the area. Be sure to take any medications, pets, important documents, and family valuables if asked to leave. Close all windows and doors before leaving.

September 5, 2016 at 9:17 AM

The fire burned actively in several locations during the burn period Sunday, with wind and terrain alignments encouraging spread through shrub and heavier fuels. Fire is now established in the North Big Sur, Willow Creek and Zigzag Creek drainages. Active fire above the Carmel River on the east side of the fire continues to decline with little significant movement noted in recent infrared flights. Point protection and and structure defense actions continue. Fire growth yesterday is being reinforced today with active spread in the Pick Creek and Willow Creek drainages and in the vicinity of Black Cone Mountain, though it was much reduced in that area after a run to the ridge on Saturday. Crews continue to monitor fire movement, hold control line, and assess proximity and threat to indirect control lines.

Managers anticipate up-drainage/upslope fire spread in unburned fuels above the head of Willow Creek. It is also anticipated that fire in Pick Creek will find opportunities for slope reversals to heavier fuels on the north aspects on Monday, potentially producing runs to the coast ridge. Fire established on south slopes above Higgins Creek are anticipated to spread up-drainage toward Pick Creek and Indian Valley. Early in the evening period, activity on the southwest portion of the fire will continue with movement continuing in Zigzag Creek, Pick Creek, and Higgins Creek with the terrain above them. Significant fire movement should diminish overnight.

September 4, 2016 at 10:52 AM

An increase in winds late in the afternoon and evening resulted in a significant increase in fire activity. The overall acreage increased by approximately 2,700 acres, most of which was to the southeast. The fire moved roughly 1. 8 miles and has now passed the Marble Creek Trail and Black Cone Mountain.

Late Saturday night, satellite heat detections prompted concern for public safety and a possible evacuation for the Tassajara Zen Center. Actual fire spread was evaluated. This resulted in a decision not to issue an evacuation warning. While satellite imagery is a useful tool, it can sometimes be misleading, as radiant heat, gases and smoke can result in a heat image that is not actual fire. The eastern edge of the active fire is now approximately 2.5 miles from the Tassajara Zen Center, but separated by several ridgelines.

Firefighters were able to contain two spot fires and a place where fire crept across the containment line along Coast Ridge Rd., 1 mile north of Anderson Peak. Managers say those fires no longer pose a threat to containment lines.

No firing operations are planned today. Fire suppression repair on the north portion of the fire has been completed. Structure protection along Partington Ridge and protection assessment work is ongoing at Tassajara Zen Center and Arroyo Seco.

September 3, 2016 at 10:36 AM

Los Padres National Forest officials today extended the forest closure order for the Soberanes Fire on the Monterey Ranger District to the public effective today. Forest Service law enforcement officers will strictly enforce the closure order, which carries a penalty of $5,000 and/or six months in jail. The order will expire when the Soberanes Fire is fully contained and controlled.

The Soberanes Fire Closure Area now includes the entire Monterey Ranger District, as shown on the attached map. The notable exception is that Nacimiento-Fergusson Road remains open to through traffic. Campgrounds along Nacimiento-Fergusson Rd are closed.

Forest Service campgrounds along Hwy 1 will remain open.

Closure of the fire area aims to help ensure that members of the public are not injured within the fire perimeter, allows for the scorched landscape to begin the rehabilitation process, and reduces the potential for another human-caused wildfire.

The Soberanes Fire broke out the morning of July 22 in the Garrapata State Park north of Big Sur. The fire has burned 95,716 acres and is currently being managed by the Alaska Type 1 Incident Management Team.

September 3, 2016 at 10:12 AM

Fire suppression repair was completed in the northern section of the fire yesterday. Structure protection assessment work and activity continues on Partington Ridge, at the Tassajara Zen center and at Fred’s Camp.

Fire activity increased yesterday due to poor humidity recovery with acreage growth south of the Big Sur drainage. The weather trend for today will be cooler with higher humidity and increasing and gusty winds this afternoon, which could pose concerns for firefighters. Control lines are holding above Carmel River. Hand crews and helicopters worked to together to complete a strategic firing operation within the control lines near Los Padres Reservoir. Firing operations along Coast Ridge Road will continue today in order to keep pace with the active fire burning inside the containment lines. Coordination between aviation assets, hand crews and support engines has contributed to the ongoing success in holding the fire east of Coast Ridge Rd. Fire personnel burned and secured approximately 1 mile of fire line yesterday as they progressed toward Anderson Peak. Due to the unpredictable impact of the coastal weather patterns, crews have a window of only approximately three hours each afternoon when conditions are ideal and conducive to burning.

Evacuation Orders and Warnings: An evacuation warning remains in effect for a small section of Monterey County along the Pacific Coast Highway bounded on the north by Castro Canyon, on the south by the Julie Pfeiffer Burns State Park, on the east by North Coast Ridge Rd, and on the west by Highway 1. An evacuation warning remains in place for Tassajara Road from Carmel Valley Road to the Tassajara Hot Springs Zen Center. An evacuation order remains in effect for North Coast Ridge Rd. from mile marker 1.5 to Marble Peak at the end of the road. Access to the businesses in the Carmel Valley and along highway 1 in Big Sur are mostly unaffected. Please stay alert and watch out for vehicles entering the highway along your route.

Community Meeting: The Alaska Interagency Incident Management Team will host a community meeting today beginning at 6 p.m. at the Cachagua General Store. All are invited to attend. The address is 18840 Cachagua Rd. in Carmel Valley. Team and Agency representatives, fire specialists and cooperators will provide the current status of the Soberanes Fire and will be available for questions.

September 2, 2016 at 8:28 AM

Fire suppression repair is expected to be complete in the Northern section of the fire by the end of today. Structure protection activity continue on Partington Ridge and protection assessment work is ongoing at Fred’s Camp.

Fire activity decreased yesterday due to moderating weather; lighter winds and cooler temperatures. Control lines are holding above Carmel River. Hand crews and helicopters worked to extinguish heat and smoke well within the control lines near Los Padres Reservoir. Firing operations along Coast Ridge Road are keeping up with active fire inside the containment lines. This increases the probability of holding the fire east of Coast Ridge Rd. Fire personnel have burned and secured approximately 1,000 feet of line each afternoon. They have only about 3 hours each afternoon when conditions are ideal and conductive to burning.

Evacuation Orders and Warnings: An evacuation warning remains in effect for a small section of Monterey County along the Pacific Coast Highway bounded on the north by Castro Canyon, on the south by the Julie Pfeiffer Burns State Park, on the east by North Coast Ridge Rd, and on the west by Highway 1. An evacuation warning remains in place for Tassajara Road from Carmel Valley Road to the Tassajara Hot Springs Zen Center. An evacuation order remains in effect for North Coast Ridge Rd. from mile marker 1.5 to Marble Peak at the end of the road. Access to the businesses in the Carmel Valley and along highway 1 in Big Sur are mostly unaffected. Please stay alert and watch out for vehicles entering the highway along your route.

September 1, 2016 at 6:50 PM

Fire activity was somewhat lower than yesterday due to moderating weather, primarily lighter winds and cooler temperatures. There was one pocket of visible nuisance smoke from fuels smoldering above San Clemente Dam well within the fire perimeter. The fire exhibited very limited spread in the southeast edge and bucket operations were used to keep fire north and west of Carmel River. The most active portion of the fire remains in the South Fork of the Big Sur and Pick Creek drainages. Burnout operations were conducted along Coastal Ridge to keep pace with southern movement of the fire.

Offshore breezes will be light and have limited impact as burnout operations gain ground in the area of active fire in Pick Creek. Continuing light winds will keep fire spread on the southwest edge of the fire limited to alignments of fuels on south exposures. It is possible that fire may find an opportunity to make a run on north slopes in the South Fork of the Big Sur drainage or possibly in Pick Creek as fire continues to flank through the drainage. Little movement is expected above English Cabin and in the vicinity of Sulphur Springs Camp.

September 1, 2016 at 8:15 AM

The Burned Area Emergency Response (BEAR) assessments continued on the northern portion of the fire. Fire suppression repair is expected to be completed in the Northern section of the fire by Sunday. Structure protection actions continue on Partington Ridge and protection assessment work is beginning at Fred’s Camp.

Fire burned actively in several locations were wind and terrain were aligned during the warmest part of the day. Control lines are holding above Carmel River with only scattered heat well within the control lines near Los Padres Reservoir.

Fire continues to be active less than 1 mile from control lines in the South Fork Big Sur River and the Pick Creek drainages. Firing operations along Coast Ridge Road are keeping up with active fire inside the containment lines to increase the probability of holding the fire east of the Coast Ridge Rd.

Evacuation Orders and Warnings: An evacuation warning remains in effect for a small section of Monterey County along the Pacific Coast Highway bounded on the north by Castro Canyon, on the south by the Julie Pfeiffer Burns State Park, on the east by North Coast Ridge Rd, and on the west by Highway 1. An evacuation warning remains in place for Tassajara Road from Carmel Valley Road to the Tassajara Hot Springs Zen Center. An evacuation order remains in effect for North Coast Ridge Rd. from mile marker 1.5 to Marble Peak at the end of the road. Access to the businesses in the Carmel Valley and along highway 1 in Big Sur are mostly unaffected. We request you stay alert and watch out for vehicles entering the highway along your route.

Community Meeting: There will be a community meeting on Saturday, September 3, 2016 beginning at 6 p.m. at the Cachagua General Store Saturday, 18840 Cachagua Rd., Carmel Valley, CA., 93924. The USDA Forest Service and Alaska Interagency Incident Management, in conjunction with cooperating agencies on the Soberanes Fire, will host a community meeting. Representatives from managing agencies and cooperators of the fire will provide the current status of the Soberanes Fire and be available for questions.

August 31, 2016 at 8:37 AM

Fire continued to be active in the South Fork Big Sur River drainage and Mocho Creek on the southwest edge of the fire. There was running and spotting up south slopes and creeping up north-facing slopes under cover less than 1 mile from indirect control lines. There was also active fire on the south slope above the Carmel River near Sulphur Springs Camp. Infrared showed intense heat in the area burned out adjacent to the Los Padres Reservoir due to increased winds and increased heat on the line near Miller Mountain above the English Cabin. Water and retardant drops by aircraft were used to limit further spread of fire in the Carmel and Big Sur river drainages.

There is potential for northeast winds to turn fire spread more toward indirect control lines on the southwest edge of the fire. Concern for recent spread and wind/slope alignments in the Carmel River drainage pose risk for further spread on west aspects up the Bruce Fork toward Miller Mountain as winds turn more northwest on Tuesday. New spread is anticipated from the Miller Mountain area a above the English Cabin. By Wednesday, cooler weather with diminishing winds will decrease potential for significant spread, especially in areas that have not demonstrated growth recently.

August 30, 2016 at 9:03 AM

Fire managers on Monday continued to mobilize resources and strategize for expected high winds in the Big Sur area late Monday night and Tuesday. Managers moved additional resources in the Big Sur area in anticipation of the winds.

There was increased fire activity Monday on the southwest side of the fire primarily due to intensified winds and a drop in relative humidity. For the second straight day, fire spread on the south slope above the Carmel River in the vicinity of Sulphur Springs Camp. Water drops from aircraft were utilized to limit further spread of the fire east of the Carmel River drainage. Fire continued to be active in the South Fork Big Sur River drainage and Mocho Creek that feeds it on the southern edge of the fire.

Structure protection actions along Partington Ridge south of Big Sur continued. Managers also reviewed and updated aerial ignition plans to ensure all necessary support is in place if that action becomes necessary.

Evacuation Orders and Warnings: An evacuation warning was issued effective 6 p.m. Sunday, August 28 for a small section of Monterey County along the Pacific Coast Highway bounded on the north by Castro Canyon, on the south by the Julie Pfeiffer Burns State Park, on the east by North Coast Ridge Rd, and on the west by Highway 1. An evacuation warning remains in place for Tassajara Road from Carmel Valley Road to the Tassajara Hot Springs Zen Center. An evacuation order remains in effect for North Coast Ridge Rd. from mile marker 1.5 to Marble Peak at the end of the road.

August 29, 2016 at 8:54 PM

For the second consecutive day, fire spread on the south slope above Carmel River in the vicinity of Sulphur Springs Camp. Aircraft was utilized to limit further spread of the fire east of the Carmel River drainage. Fire continued to be active in the South Fork Big Sur River drainage and Mocho Creek that feeds it. Firefighters continued structure protection actions on Partington Ridge on the southwest side of the fire. Managers monitored fire movement up the Big Sur drainages and prepositioned resources to maximize their ability to keep fire within indirect fire lines.

August 29, 2016 at 8:12 AM

The fire burned actively in several locations at the beginning of the period, and some areas continued to smolder near held lines through the night after a day of bright afternoon sun. There was some fire growth in the Carmel River drainage above the Los Padres Reservoir yesterday. There was limited activity overall despite low humidity overnight. The most active areas overnight were well into the interior of the fire.

Currently, 37,194 acres is on Cal Fire – San Benito-Monterey Unit and 55,120 acres is on Los Padres National Forest – Monterey Ranger District

An evacuation warning has been issued effective 6 p.m. on Sunday August 28, 2016 for a small section of Monterey County along the Pacific Coast Highway. An evacuation warning is a precautionary notice that an evacuation order may become necessary if the threat increases. The evacuation area is bounded on the north by Castro Canyon, on the south by the Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, on the east by North Coast Ridge Road and on the west by Highway 1 (Pacific Coast Highway). The warning is due to an expected increase in wind associated with a passing weather front forecast from Sunday evening through Tuesday evening. All residents under a warning should prepare to leave this area. Be sure to take any medications, pets, important documents and family valuables with you if asked to leave. Close all windows and doors before leaving.

Highway 1 remains open in the vicinity of the Soberanes Fire.

There will be a Community Meeting Monday, August 29, 2016 beginning at 6:00 pm. The location is the Big Sur Station, 47455 Hwy. 1, Big Sur, California. Members of the Alaskan Incident Management Team will be there to provide information and answer questions regarding the Soberanes Fire.

August 28, 2016 at 9:59 AM

With no significant fire spread on Saturday, managers focused efforts on securing indirect line on the east and south perimeters of the fire. There was active fire in the bottom of the Carmel River above the Los Padres Reservoir and fire continued to spread within the unburned area north and east of Double Cone and within a half-mile of English Cabin.
Fire also moved east above the South Fork of the Big Sur River, but indirect lines were not threatened. Firefighters scouted for opportunities to construct direct line and prepare for structure defense well in front of the main fire on the southeast. Suppression repair continued on the northern edge of the fire and more crews will be inserted in that area today to assist with that work.
A high-pressure ridge building over the fire resulted in slightly warmer temperatures and lower relative humidity on Saturday, a trend that is expected to continue today. As the high pressure builds, the marine layer will lift earlier in the morning and lengthen the burn period.

August 27, 2016 at 8:32 PM

Heavy smoke over much of the open fireline discouraging active spread. Where intense heat exists, activity did not threaten indirect firelines. Utilized Geo-located Day IR (US Air Force Falcon 4)to assess fuel types and areas of heat southof the LP Reservoir for use in strategic planning.

Continued backing into and crossing the Carmel drainages and towards Miller Mountain. Fire will flank down the sides of the Big Sur drainage as it moves south. Fire will continue to travel along the ridge line between the Ventana Cones. The fire will continue to burn interior islands.

August 27, 2016 at 11:04 AM

Alaska Interagency Incident Management Team, Tom Kurth Incident Commander. The incident is no longer in unified command with Cal Fire, many Cal Fire resources are still being utilized.

Fire Restrictions:  Forest Order 05-07-16-15 Fire Use Restrictions – Level IV Fire Restrictions. This Order is effective from August 23, 2016, through the end of the official 2016 fire season.

Current Situation: Yesterday, a thick marine layer kept fire activity along the coastal area low. Weather stations positioned around the fire area continue to show significant differences in humidity between the lower and higher elevations. Interior portions of the fire continue to grow slowly. Similar fire behavior is expected today and no threats to fire containment lines are anticipated.

Additional structure protection and firing operation crews have arrived and are taking this time of slow fire growth to develop preparing for potential fire movement. Suppression line repair work continues on the northern perimeter of the fire.

Defensible Space: The best action homeowners can take to protect their property from wildfire is to create defensible space around their homes or cabins. This allows firefighters to take advantage of extra room to operate equipment to safely reach and extinguish any active fire when they check your home after the fire passes. Research has shown that homes with defensible space, free of flammable fuels, can often survive a wildfire. For more information on getting a home assessment contact your local Cal Fire station. Other tips and information is available on www.firewise.org.

Wilderness Tactics: To reduce the impacts associated with fire suppression activities in wilderness areas, fire managers and firefighting crews continue using Minimum Impact Suppression Tactics (MIST) as much as possible. The steep, rugged terrain of the Ventana Wilderness is inherently treacherous to firefighters. Most direct fireline is being constructed near the perimeter in areas that have been pretreated and supported by aircraft. The inaccessibility into the Ventana Wilderness along much of the fire’s east side continually requires patience, as well as slow and steady hard work from the crews, as they look for options to construct direct line.

US Forest Service Road and Trail Closures: A forest closure order has been implemented to close the trails and roads within the Los Padres National Forest, Monterey Ranger District pursuant to USC 551 and 36 CFR 261.50(a). The order prohibits going into or being upon National Forest System lands within the Soberanes Fire area.  For a complete list of closures please visit: www.fs.usda.gov/lpnf .  The following sites are open: Pfeiffer Beach Day Use, Mill Creek Day Use, Willow Creek Day Use, Sand Dollar Day Use, Kirk Creek Campground, Nacimiento Campground, Ponderosa Campground and Plaskett Creek Campground.

California State Park Closures: Point Sur Light Station State Historic Park is open and guided tours will resume today. Go to www.pointsur.org for more information. Portions of Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park including the McWay Falls trail have opened. All lands and trails east of the parking lot and the campground remain closed. The Big Sur Lodge is open, however, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Day Use and Campgrounds remain closed. Go to www.bigsurlodge.com for more information.

The following park units remain closed:· Andrew Molera State Park -All park lands closed to public entry;  Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park – All park lands except the Big Sur Lodge closed to public entry;  Garrapata State Park – All park lands east of Hwy 1 closed to public entry.

Evacuation Orders and Warnings:  An evacuation ORDER remains in effect for Coast Ridge Rd. from mile marker 1.5 to Marble Peak at the end of the road. A WARNING remains for Tassajara Road from Carmel Valley Road to the Tassajara Hot Springs Zen Center. This area includes all roads that lead from the above described roads.

Donations: Local relief efforts to the fire victims have been provided by the Coast Property Owners Association (CPOA) and the Community Foundation for Monterey County.  Donations can be made to the CPOA at Coast Property Owners Association, PO Box 59, Big Sur, CA  93920 or the Community Foundation for Monterey County, 2354 Garden Road, Monterey, CA 93940 (831)375-9712.

The Red Cross prepares for, responds to, and helps people recover from disasters big and small.  For any unmet disaster related needs, please call their 24 hour hotline at 1-866-272-2237.

Additional Cooperating and Assisting Organizations: California State Parks and Recreation, California Highway Patrol  California Office of Emergency Services , California Department of Corrections & Rehabilitation, California National Guard, Big Sur Land Trust, SPCA of Monterey County, California Department of Transportation, California National Guard, California Fish & Wildlife, Coast Property Owners Association (CPOA), Community Foundation for Monterey County, Bureau of Land Management, American Red Cross, County of Monterey, Pacific Gas and Electric, Carmel Highlands F.P.D., Monterey County Regional Fire Protection District, Mid Coast Volunteer Fire Brigade, Big Sur Volunteer Fire Brigade and the Cachagua Fire Protection District.

August 25, 2016 at 6:47 AM

Continued backing into and crossing the Carmel drainages and towards Miller Mountain. Fire will flank down the sides of the Big Sur drainage and Lion Creek drainage as it moves south. Fire will continue to bump and attempt to cross Logwood ridge. Fire will continue to travel along the ridge line between the Ventana Cones. The fire will continue to burn interior islands.

Projected activity: Continued backing into and crossing the Carmel drainages and towards Miller Mountain. Fire will flank down the sides of the Big Sur drainage and Lion Creek drainage as it moves south. Fire will continue to bump and attempt to cross Logwood ridge. Fire will continue to travel along the ridge line between the Ventana Cones. The fire will continue to burn interior islands.

August 24, 2016 at 8:28 AM

A community meeting will be held at the Cachagua General Store, located at 18840 Cachagua Road, Carmel Valley, CA on Thursday, August 25, 2016 at 6:00 P.M.

The fire continues to move south and east of Miller Mountain in Hiding Camp Canyon, and farther south near the Ventana Cones. It has crossed Big Sur drainage below Mount Olmstead and remains within containment lines.  Tomorrow’s marine layer is predicted to burn off mid-morning. This will produce the warmest temperatures of the week. Due to decreased humidity recovery through the night and drought conditions, fire behavior is expected to increase making aggressive runs up hill in the fire area. At present the fire is not expected to threaten the containment lines along Tassajara Road to the East or along Coast Ridge Road to the West.

The fire’s slow progress southward around Logwood Ridge is allowing firefighters to delay their tactical firing operations. Firing operations are only conducted when weather and conditions allow for its safe and effective use. Firefighters continue to widen and improve indirect containment lines east from Anderson peak to Santa Lucia Memorial Park and northward to Arroyo Seco. A Structure Protection Group has been formed to continue to assess and improve fire protection of structures within the projected growth of the fire.

Fire line repair continues in the Carmel Zone fire areas.

Wilderness Tactics: To reduce the impacts associated with fire suppression activities in wilderness areas, fire managers and firefighting crews continue using Minimum Impact Suppression Tactics as much as possible. The steep, rugged terrain of the Ventana Wilderness is inherently treacherous to firefighters. Most direct fireline is being constructed near the perimeter in areas that have been pretreated and supported by aircraft. The inaccessibility into the Ventana Wilderness along much of the fire’s east side continually requires patience, and slow and steady hard work from the crews, as they look for options to construct direct line.

The fire was caused by an illegal, unattended campfire on the Soberanes Canyon trail in the Garrapata State Park. Anyone with information is asked to call the CAL FIRE Tip Line at: (800) 468-4408.  Fire managers want to remind the public that human caused fires are preventable. Please be aware of current fire restrictions and be careful with anything that could spark a fire.

August 23, 2016 at 8:07 AM

A community meeting will be held at the Cachagua General Store, located at 18840 Cachagua Road, Carmel Valley, CA on Thursday, August 25, 2016 at 6:00 P.M.

Current Situation: The fire continues to slowly move south and east of Miller Mountain in Hiding Camp Canyon, and farther south near the Ventana Cones. Fire behavior remains a slow backing and flanking fire through an eight year old fuel bed of grass, brush and timber litter. Near the coast range, the fire continues to flank southward in the Big Sur drainage below Mount Olmstead. Aircraft was utilized yesterday to cool and slow the southward progression of the fire. At present, there is no threat to the completed indirect containment lines along Tassajara Road to the east nor along Coast Ridge Road to the west.

Firing operations have not occurred for several days. The fire’s slow progress southward around Logwood Ridge is allowing firefighters to delay their tactical firing operations. These firing operations allow firefighters safer conditions while creating containment lines east of Coast Ridge Road. Firing operations are only conducted when weather and conditions allow for safe and effective operations. Firefighters continue to widen and improve indirect containment lines east from Anderson peak to Santa Lucia Memorial Park and northward to Arroyo Seco. These indirect lines are built on the ridges that stopped the Basin Complex of 2008.

California Interagency Incident Management Team Three, CAL FIRE and cooperators wish to thank the California National Guard for their contributions and support of the team efforts on the Soberanes Fire.

August 22, 2016 at 7:33 AM

Today marks day thirty of the Soberanes Fire. Nominal growth occurred the last twenty four hours of 1,082 acres. The fire continues to slowly burn interior islands with heavier fuels within the Ventana Wilderness portions of the fire. No movement outside the fireline is expected in this area. Crews continue to patrol and extinguish hot spots with their primary focus on suppression repair.

On the east side, the fire advanced towards Miller Mountain and Ventana Cone. Firefighters continue to prepare and reinforce contingency lines from the Los Padres Reservoir to Chews Ridge. Lines are also being strengthened from Arroyo Seco south to Santa Lucia Memorial Park. Crew have provided enhanced protection measures to structures within the predicted path of the Soberanes Fire in the Ventana Wilderness.

Near the Big Sur area, no firing operations occured yesterday but may occur today if conditions are favorable. Aircraft was utilized yesterday to slow the southward progression of the fire. Most of the fire activity occurred east of Barlow Camp and west of Redwood Creek Camp, flanking to the south in the Big Sur River drainage area. The fire is established on Logwood Ridge. Crews are working hard to reinforce hand-line along portions of Logwood Ridge where possible.

The Soberanes Fire has increased 1,082 acres, with most growth occurring between Double Cone and Uncle Sam Mountain. Firefighters continue their efforts building and improving existing control lines spanning from the Los Padres Reservoir to Chews Ridge. Due to inaccessibility along most of the fire’s east side, some crews have been temporarily spiked (camping near the fire front) out, scouting for options for direct line to restrict fire spread where possible.

August 21, 2016 at 9:37 PM

Evacuation warnings have lifted for the east side of Highway 1 from Andrew Molera State Park to Coast Ridge Road at the Ventana Inn. This includes the Ventana Inn and Coast Ridge Road to 1.5 miles above Ventana Inn.

Evacuation orders remain in effect for Coast Ridge Road from 1.5 miles above the Ventana Inn to the end of Coast Ridge Road at Marble Peak, and roads that leave from Coast Ridge Road.

Evacuation warnings remain in effect from the Tassajara Road from Carmel Valley to the Tassajara Hot Springs Zen Center, and roads that leave from Tassajara Road.

August 21, 2016 at 11:34 AM

With an increase of 1,382 acres, the Soberanes Fire was most active near and continues to progress slowly toward Buckskin Flat. It crossed the Carmel River about one mile south of Buckskin Flat Campground, 2 miles northeast of Hiding Canyon and 5 miles west of Chews Ridge. Firefighters continue their efforts building and strengthening existing control lines spanning from the Los Padres Reservoir to Chews Ridge. Due to the well-known ruggedness and inaccessibility along most of the fire’s east side in the Ventana Wilderness, crews continue to spike (camping near the fire front) out, scouting for options for direct line to restrict fire spread where possible.

The northern portion of the fire in the Carmel Valley area remains quiet and crews are expected to be in suppression repair for a couple more weeks.
In the immediate Big Sur area, firefighters are mopping up and beginning repair of fire suppression efforts. No firing operations took place on the fire yesterday but aircraft were utilized on the fire’s perimeter southeast of Big Sur, to cool and slow the fire’s edge.

Firefighters are taking protective action to defend against the slowly advancing Sobranes Fire in the Ventana Wilderness. The English cabin once owned by Jack English a local mountain man and resident, near Pine Flat has been protected with fire-resistant wrap. Dozer line has been constructed around the Church Ranch, and to preserve cultural sites and protect houses near Chews Ridge, areas have been brushed and positioned with hose lays and water pumps. Additional protective action will be taken if deemed necessary.

Wilderness Tactics: To reduce the impacts associated with fire suppression activities in wilderness areas, fire managers and firefighting crews continue using MIST (Minimum Impact Suppression Tactics) as much as possible. The steep, rugged terrain of the Ventana Wilderness is inherently treacherous to firefighters. Most direct fireline is being constructed near the perimeter in areas that have been pretreated and supported by aircraft.

The fire was caused by an illegal, unattended campfire on the Soberanes Canyon trail in the Garrapata State Park. Anyone with information is asked to call the CAL FIRE Tip Line at: (800) 468-4408.

August 20, 2016 at 10:06 AM

Firefighter have began direct fire line construction south of the Los Padres Reservoir, building line north of the Carmel River. In the Big Sur Zone, operations continued southward today, conducting tactical burning on the east side of Coast Ridge Road. Air tankers dropped retardant along Logwood Ridge, and scouted for opportunities to hold the fire atop Logwood Ridge. Firing operations will only be considered during favorable weather conditions.

Fireline repair continues along much of the fire perimeter: from Andrew Molera State Park north to Carmel Highlands, and south of the Carmel Valley to the Los Padres Reservoir.

Projected Incident Activity    

12 hours: Continued backing into the Ventana Mesa and Carmel drainages. Fire may cross the Carmel River near Hiding Camp and Buckskin Flat Camp. The fire will grow to the south as it wraps around Mt. Olmstead and backs down Logwood Ridge. Fire will flank down the sides of the Big Sur drainage and Lion Creek drainage as it moves south. Expect up hill runs on the south side of the Logwood drainage back towards Logwood ridge. Expect a second burn period at night.

24 hours: The fire will continue to burn interior islands. The fire will continue to flank around and make uphill runs on Logwood Ridge. Fire progression will continue to the south, towards Miller Peak.

37,194 acres is on Cal Fire – San Benito-Monterey Unit and 44,202 acres is on Los Padres National Forest – Monterey Ranger District

August 19, 2016 at 8:38 PM

The Command of the Soberanes Fire has transitioned to California Interagency Incident Command Team 3 from CAL FIRE Team 4. Fire remains in Unified Command with CAL FIRE , Monterey County Sheriff, USDA Forest Service with multiple cooperating agencies. Fire information number remains the same, (831)204-0446. This number is located in the Incident Command Post located at Toro Park in Salinas.

Firefighters are working to contain the 81,396 acre wildfire burning south of the Carmel Valley and northeast of Big Sur in Monterey County, California. Containment is now 60%. 2,500 personnel are assigned to this fire including: 48 Hand Crews; 65 Engines; 13 Helicopters; 32 Dozers; and 50 Water Tenders.

Firefighter have began direct fire line construction south of the Los Padres Reservoir, building line north of the Carmel River. In the Big Sur Zone, operations continued southward today, conducting tactical burning on the east side of Coast Ridge Road. Air tankers dropped retardant along Logwood Ridge, and scouted for opportunities to hold the fire atop Logwood Ridge. Firing operations will only be considered during favorable weather conditions.

Fireline repair continues along much of the fire perimeter: from Andrew Molera State Park north to Carmel Highlands, and south of the Carmel Valley to the Los Padres Reservoir.

August 19, 2016 at 7:15 AM

Firefighter have began direct fire line construction south of the Los Padres Reservoir, building line north of the Carmel River.In the Big Sur Zone, operations continued southward today, conducting tactical burning on the east side of Coast Ridge Road. Air tankers dropped retardant along Logwood Ridge, and scouted for opportunities to hold the fire atop Logwood Ridge.Firing operations will only be considered during favorable weather conditions.

Projected Incident Activity

12 hours: Continued backing into the Ventana Mesa and Carmel drainages. Fire may cross the Carmel River near Hiding Camp and Buckskin Flat Camp. The fire will grow to the south as it wraps around Mt. Olmstead and backs down Logwood Ridge. Fire will flank down the sides of the Big Sur drainage and Lion Creek drainage as it moves south. Expect up hill runs on the south side of the Logwood drainage back towards Logwood ridge. Expect a second burn period at night.

24 hours: The fire will continue to burn interior islands. The fire will continue to flank around and make uphill runs on Olmstead Mountain. The fire will progress through Logwood ridge. The fire may cross Lions Creek and Carmel River.

Currently: 37,194 acres is on Cal Fire – San Benito-Monterey Unit and 44,202 acres is on Los Padres National Forest – Monterey Ranger District.

The marine layer moved in overnight at a depth of near 1800 feet. Humidity recoveries remain poor above the marine layer over the ridges and upper slopes. The low clouds and fog will erode back to the coast by mid-morning. Clouds will linger along the Big Sur Coast, but inland areas will see more sunshine. Temperatures will be similar to Thursday. Winds will be southerly in the morning and then switch to more westerly by afternoon.

Expected weather for Friday Afternoon:
Wind: Southerly 5- 15 mph with gusts to 20 mph becoming westerly in the afternoon.
Temp: 60s and 70s coast…80s to lower 90s above 1800 feet and interior.
RH: 45-60% coast and 10-25% above 1800 feet and interior.

August 18, 2016 at 6:58 PM

The Soberanes Fire continues to grow east and south of the Big Sur area. Firefighters continue to build fireline southward on the ridge east of Hwy 1 above the Big Sur Community. Firing operations will continue along the ridge as the fire itself moves south within the Ventana Wilderness, and will persist until operations are complete or until weather and fire conditions prevent continued success. Firing operations will only be considered during favorable weather conditions.

Currently: 37,178 acres is on Cal Fire – San Benito-Monterey Unit and 41,822 acres is on Los Padres National Forest – Monterey Ranger District

August 18, 2016 at 7:33 AM

Projected Incident Activity 

12 hours: Continued backing into the Carmel drainage. The fire will grow to the south of the Ventana drainage and continue to make uphill runs on Island Mountain and back into the Big Sure drainage. Flanking fire moving south through the Big Sur drainage and Logwood Creek drainage. Expect up hill runs on the south side of the Logwood drainage towards Logwood ridge. Expect a second burn period at night.

24 hours: The fire will continue to burn interior islands. The fire will continue to flank around and make uphill runs on Island mountain. The fire will progress through Logwood creek drainage and make uphill runs towards Logwood ridge and Olmstead Mountain. The fire will back into Lions creek drainage.

Currently: 37,178 acres is on Cal Fire – San Benito-Monterey Unit and 41,822 acres is on Los Padres National Forest – Monterey Ranger District

EVACUATION ORDERS: An evacuation ORDER remains in effect for Coast Ridge Rd. from mile marker 1.5 to Marble Peak at the end of the road.

EVACUATION WARNINGS: Evacuation WARNINGS remain in effect for the east side of HWY 1 from Andrew Molera Park to Coast Ridge Rd at the Ventana Inn. This area includes the Ventana Inn and Coast Ridge Rd to mile marker 1.5. A WARNING remains for Tassajara Road from Carmel Valley Road to the Tassajara Hot Springs Zen Center. This area includes all roads that lead from the above described roads.

Residents should prepare to leave the areas listed above and be sure to take any medications, pets, family valuables, etc. with you. Close all windows and leave all doors closed.

August 17, 2016 at 8:09 PM

The Soberanes Fire continues to grow east and south of the Big Sur area. Firefighters continue to build fireline southward on the ridge east of Hwy 1 above the Big Sur Community. Firing operations will continue along the ridge as the fire itself moves south within the Ventana Wilderness, and will persist until operations are complete or until weather and fire conditions prevent continued success. Firing operations will only be considered during favorable weather conditions.

The fire was caused by an illegal, unattended campfire on the Soberanes Canyon trail in the Garrapata State Park. Anyone with information is asked to call the CAL FIRE Tip Line at: (800) 468-4408. The name of the fire follows a tradition of naming wildfires after local geography. Nearby Soberanes Point is named for the Soberanes family who ranched and offered hospitality to travelers in the area in the 1800s.

Conditions above the marine layer remain very dry with many locations less than 20% relative humidity. Humidity has been dropping into the single digits during the overnight hours above the marine layer and this is expected to happen again tonight creating another burning period. The lower areas of the Big Sur Coast will remain cooler with temps in the 50s overnight but ridges and away from the coast will drop into the 70s. Winds will remain primarily terrain driven with a small southerly component. Weak transport winds will push smoke to the north and northeast. The marine is expected to return overnight at around 1500 feet.

Expected weather for Wednesday Night:

Wind: Southerly 2-5 mph with gusts as high as 8 mph early.

Temp: 70-78 above 2000 feet and 53-58 along Highway 1 and up the Carmel Valley

RH: 60-80% below 1500 feet and 8-20% above 1500 feet and interior.

August 17, 2016 at 9:21 AM

The Soberanes Fire continues to spread slowly toward the Big Sur area and firefighters continue to work aggressively building fire line east of Hwy 1 above the Big Sur Community. As the fire approaches the area, firing operations have necessitated the closure of Hwy 1. Firing operations are occurring above Big Sur, and will continue until operations are complete or until weather and fire conditions prevent continued success. Firing operations will only be considered during favorable weather conditions.

Projected Incident Activity  

12 hours: Continued backing in the Coast Ridge area above Big Sur. Continued backing into the Carmel drainage. The fire will grow to the south of the Ventana drainage and continue to make uphill runs on Island Mountain and back into the Big Sur drainage. Flanking fire moving south through the Big Sur drainage and Logwood Creek drainage.

24 hours: The fire will continue to burn interior islands. On the coastal side, the fire will continue to back down to the control lines in Division O. The fire will continue to make uphill runs on Island Mountain. The fire will begin to establish below Olmstead Mountain.

Currently: 37,177 acres is on Cal Fire – San Benito-Monterey Unit and 39,506 acres is on Los Padres National Forest – Monterey Ranger District

August 16, 2016 at 9:15 PM

Tactical firing operations have been successful in defending the community of Big Sur. Hwy 1 is now open to traffic in both directions.

A total of 57 residences and 11 outbuildings have been destroyed. Three residences and two outbuildings have been damaged.

380 residents have been evacuated along with several road closures.

Expected weather for Tuesday Night:
Wind: Southerly 2-5 mph with gusts as high as 8 mph early.
Temp: 66-71 above 2000 feet and 53-58 along Highway 1 and up the Carmel Valley
RH: 75-85% below 1800 feet and 15-25% above 1800 feet and interior

August 16, 2016 at 7:02 AM

Highway 1 has reopened to traffic effective 12:00 A.M. midnight on August 16, 2016. The highway closed early Monday morning when fire crews noticed large fire weakened trees (hazard trees) threatening powerlines, telephone cables and the Pacific Coast Highway north of Big Sur, CA. Crews worked throughout the day and evening to lower power and telephone lines, cut down the trees, and re-string lines.

Continued cooperation between Pacific Gas and Electric, AT&T, California Department of Transportation, California Highway Patrol, USDA Forest Service, CAL FIRE, and other cooperators was essential to ensure the safety of visiting motorists, residents and firefighters.

Unified Command of the Soberanes Fire thanks the residents and travelers in Big Sur for their understanding and cooperation while Highway 1 was closed.

The Soberanes Fire continues to spread slowly toward the Big Sur area and firefighters continue to work aggressively building fire line east of Hwy 1 above the Big Sur Community. As the fire approaches the area, firing operations have necessitated the closure of Hwy 1. Firing operations are occurring above Big Sur, and will continue until operations are complete or until weather and fire conditions prevent continued success. Firing operations will only be considered during favorable weather conditions.

August 15, 2016 at 7:13 AM

Hwy 1 is now closed. A ROAD CLOSURE will be effective immediately on August 15, 2016, and may be in effect until 5:00 P.M. Hwy 1 will be closed to all traffic, including residents, in both directions due to a hazardous tree, Closure is from Point Sur Lighthouse to North Coast Ridge Rd. This situation may last until 5:00 P.M. today. The highway will be re-opened as soon as the threat to firefighter and public safety has been mitigated.
The following evacuation warnings were lifted at 6:00 P.M, August 15, 2016: all residents along Cachagua Road at Nason Rd. to Trampa Canyon Rd and Cachagua Rd from Carmel Valley Road to Tassajara Rd.

The Soberanes Fire continues to spread slowly toward the Big Sur area and firefighters continue to work aggressively building fire line east of Hwy 1 above the Big Sur Community. As the fire approaches the area, firing operations may necessitate the closure of Hwy 1. Firing operations are occurring above Big Sur, and will continue until operations are complete or until weather and fire conditions prevent continued success. Firing operations will only be considered during favorable weather conditions.

August 14, 2016 at 12:42 PM

Los Padres National Forest officials today announced the temporary closing of the Arroyo Seco Campground and Day Use facility to provide for public safety while Soberanes Fire operations crews draw water from the Arroyo Seco River to support a nearby mobile retardant site. The closure will ensure the public does not impede ground support operations or create hazards and compromise safety.

The Arroyo Seco Campground and Day Use facility will re-open once the Soberanes Fire is fully contained and controlled or the nearby mobile retardant site is closed or moved to a different location.

August 14, 2016 at 12:14 PM

PG&E to de-energize powerlines along Hwy 1 to assist Soberanes firefighters with tactical burn operations.

This action corresponds with the closure of Hwy 1 to help ensure the safety of firefighters in the Big Sur Area along the highway.

The following areas will be de-energized at 2:00 P.M. today:

South of the Fernwood vicinity
North of Dolan Creek.

This emergency planned outage may last up to 24 hours. Outages are due to anticipated tactical firing operations in the Big Sur area today, corresponding with the closure of Hwy 1. This closure and power outage will be continually re-evaluated based on fire conditions, and the threats to firefighter and public safety. PG&E is attempting to notify customers affected by this outage. For information specific to this emergency planned outage, customers may contact PG&E at 1-800-743-5000.

August 14, 2016 at 10:10 AM

Projected Incident Activity

12 hours: Continued backing in the Coast Ridge area above Big Sur. Continued backing into the Carmel and Ventana drainages. A second burn period expected above 2000′ in the predawn hours.

24 hours: The fire will continue to burn interior islands. On the coastal side of the fire it will continue to back down into the Ventana Creek and Big Sur River Drainages. If the fire crosses Big Sur River, Ventana Creek or the Carmel River it will be poised to make a slope reversal run to the South.

Due to anticipated firing operations in the Big Sur area tomorrow, Hwy 1 will close at 2:00 P.M. August 14, 2016. Hwy 1 will be closed from Point Sur Lighthouse to North Coast Ridge Rd. The closure may last up to 24 hours. The highway will be closed to all traffic, including residents, in both directions. Firing operations will only be considered during favorable weather conditions. The closure will be continually re-evaluated based on fire conditions, and the threat to firefighter and public safety.

The Soberanes Fire continues to spread slowly toward the Big Sur area and firefighters continue to work aggressively building fire line east of Hwy 1 above the Big Sur Community. As the fire approaches the area, firing operations may necessitate the closure of Hwy 1. Firing operations are occurring above Big Sur, and will continue until operations are complete or until weather and fire conditions prevent continued success. Firing operations will only be considered during favorable weather conditions.

Currently: 37,104 acres is on Cal Fire – San Benito-Monterey Unit and 34,826 acres is on Los Padres National Forest – Monterey Ranger District

August 13, 2016 at 9:56 AM

Fire was backing through the night but there was minimal fire growth overnight. Firing operations over the next few days, to secure fire line in the Big Sur area, may necessitate the closure of Hwy 1 at times. Avoid the area if possible.

EVACUATION ORDERS: Areas that are under evacuation orders include Coast Rd, from the 2- mile marker south to Coast Ridge Road on the East side of Hwy 1 to include all areas accessed by these roads.

EVACUATION WARNINGS: Areas are under evacuation warnings, West of Hwy 1 at Coast road at the intersection of Andrew Molera State Park to Graves Canyon. Cachagua Road at Nason Road to Trampa Canyon Rd, Cachagua Road from Carmel Valley Road to Tassajara Rd, Tassajara Road from Carmel Valley Road to the Tassajara Hot Springs Zen Center. This area includes all roads that lead from the above described roads.

August 12, 2016 at 7:30 AM

The Soberanes Fire continues to spread slowly toward the Big Sur area and firefighters continue to work aggressively building fire line. As the fire approaches the area, firing operations may necessitate the closure of Hwy 1. It is anticipated that firing operations may occur in the next 24-48 hours. Firing operations will only be considered during favorable weather conditions.

August 11, 2016 at 8:16 AM

Wind event overnight pushed the fire into the Big Sur Area. Fire continues to burn in steep, rugged and inaccessible terrain. Currently: 36,390 acres is on Cal Fire – San Benito-Monterey Unit and 32,308 acres is on Los Padres National Forest – Monterey Ranger District.

Firefighters are asking for the public’s assistance locating missing equipment. As the fire moved rapidly to the south, the firefighters battling the blaze moved with it deploying equipment along the way. Firefighters are now asking the public to report any equipment found in the fire area to authorities.

“Great relationships have been built between the public and the firefighters of the Soberanes Fire” said Todd Derum, Unified Incident Commander of the fire, “We’ve been humbled by the continued support that the public has provided and look forward to working with anyone reporting missing equipment.”Anyone who locates fire hose, pumps, gas cans or any other equipment should call the Soberanes Fire Information Center (831) 204-0446, or the Monterey County Sheriff’s office (831) 755-3722. A crew will be sent out to pick up any reported equipment.

With warmer and drier weather conditions forecasted fire growth and interior burning, smoke production is expected to increase and AQ degrade further. Early morning smoke is being experienced by some, particularly Monterey, Carmel, Carmel Valley, Gonzales, King City and Lockwood. This has been factored into the AQ Table. Big Sur is expected to be Very Unhealthy.  Carmel Valley is expected to be unhealthy. Salinas, Hollister, San Juan Batista, Monterey, Toro Park, Fort Ord, Carmel, Gonzales, Soledad, and Greenfield are expected to be unhealthy for sensitive groups. Smoke is expected to continue impacting the San Joaquin Valley and Sierra foothills. The northern San Luis Obispo County, especially coastal areas, are being affected by smoke. Changes to AQ today are results of continued burning, forecasted weather, and dispersion models.

August 10, 2016 at 9:46 AM

Orders are being lifted for portions of the Coast Road and Hwy 1.

August 10, 2016 at 9:24 AM

Planning for firing operations continues but will only be considered during favorable weather conditions.

380 residents have been evacuated along with several road closures listed in the Evacuations section below.

Evacuations:

EVACUATION ORDERS: Areas that are under evacuation orders include Coast Rd, south from the 2-mile marker to Hwy 1 at Andrew Molera State Park and all areas accessed by this road.EVACUATION WARNINGS: Areas are under evacuation warnings, West of Hwy 1 at Coast road at the intersection of Andrew Molera State Park to Graves Canyon. Cachagua Road at Nason Road to Trampa Canyon Rd, Cachagua Road from Carmel Valley Road to Tassajara Rd, Tassajara Road from Carmel Valley Road to the Tassajara Hot Springs Zen Center. This area includes all roads that lead from the above described roads.Residents should prepare to leave the areas listed above and be sure to take any medications, pets, family valuables, etc. with you. Close all windows and leave all doors closed.All residents are asked to be READY: Create and maintain defensible space and harden your home against flying embers. Get SET: Prepare your family and home ahead of time for the possibility of having to evacuate. Be Ready to GO! Take the evacuation steps necessary to give your family and home the best chance of surviving a wildfire.For more information on “Ready, Set, Go”, go to www.readyforwildfire.org.

Evacuation Center

All Saints’ Day School

8060 Carmel Valley Rd, Carmel Ca, 93923

Road Closures:

Palo Colorado Road at Hwy 1(open to residents only), Coast Rd, Apple Pie Ridge Road, Coast Ridge Road.

Donation Collection Center

Big Sur State Park Multi-Agency Building

47555 HWY 1 Big Sur CA 93920

Website: Montereyco.recovers.org

Phone Number: (831)-667-2315

Alert Monterey

You can self-register up to three phone lines for emergency notifications at www.alertmontereycounty.org

August 9, 2016 at 10:44 PM

Fire growth was moderate as the fire continued to back downhill toward Big Sur and into the Ventana Wilderness. Planning for firing operations continues but will only be considered during favorable weather conditions.

The fire is expected to move a half mile to the east and south in the area of Uncle Sam Mountain and Coast Ridge. Fire continues to back down the hills into the Big Sur Area. Currently: 36,287 acres is on Cal Fire – San Benito-Monterey Unit and 30,805 acres is on Los Padres National Forest – Monterey Ranger District. Marine layer depth around 2000 feet is expected again for tonight. Humidities will once again be highest along the coast and lower elevations..

August 9, 2016 at 3:11 PM

A limited closure of highway 1 due to the Soberanes Fire will take affect at 10:00 P.M. on August 9, until 6:00 A.M. August 10.

August 9, 2016 at 11:56 AM

BIG SUR EVACUATION ORDER REDUCED TO A WARNING

The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office is REDUCING an ORDER to a WARNING for the following area:

REDUCED to a WARNING in the Big Sur area:

•  East of Highway 1, from Coast Ridge Road, South to Graves Canyon is now under a warning.

The following area remains under an ORDER:

• Coast Ridge Road remains under an order. All residents under an evacuation warning should be prepared to leave the area, and be sure to take any medications, pets, family valuables, etc. with you when asked to leave. Close all windows and doors.

Firefighters will initiate firing operations in the Bur Sur area as fire conditions allow and where safe and effective to do so. Firing operations are often a critical part of fire suppression. Residents will see an increase in fire activity and smoke as the unburned fuels are removed between the main fire and the prepared control lines.

The Damage Inspection Team continues working in collaboration with Monterey County Office of Emergency Services on assessment of damaged structures and infrastructure. A total of 57 residences and 11 outbuildings have been destroyed. Three residences and two outbuildings have been damaged.

An Air Resource Advisor is assigned to the incident and is working with local and state air quality officials to analyze the impact the smoke is having on the public.

August 9, 2016 at 7:37 AM

EVACUATION ORDERS: Areas are under evacuation order East of Hwy 1 starting at Coast Road at Bixby bridge and south to Coast Ridge Road to include all of Coast Road and all areas accessed by these roads.

EVACUATION WARNINGS:
Areas are under evacuation warnings, West of Hwy 1 at Coast road at the intersection of Andrew Molera State Park to Graves Canyon. Cachagua Road at Nason Road to Trampa Canyon Rd, Cachagua Road from Carmel Valley Road to Tassajara Rd, Tassajara Road from Carmel Valley Road to the Tassajara Hot Springs Zen Center. This area includes all roads that lead from the above described roads.

Evacuation Center: All Saints’ Day School, 8060 Carmel Valley Rd, Carmel Ca, 93923

LIMITED CLOSURE OF HIGHWAY 1
Due to an increase in wind and fire activity in the Big Sur area over the last two days, a limited closure of HIGHWAY 1 will occur at 10:00 P.M. August 8, 2016.

• HIGHWAY 1 will be closed to all traffic in both directions between Palo Colorado Road and North Coast Ridge Road.
• It is scheduled to be re-opened at 6:00 A.M. August 9, 2016, but the closure will be continually re-evaluated based on fire conditions, and the threat to public safety.

Road Closures: 
Hwy 1 from Palo Colorado Rd to Coast Ridge Rd at Ventana INN will be closed 10:00 p.m. on August 8, 2016 and re-opened 6:00 a.m. on August 9, 2016. Palo Colorado Road at Hwy 1(open to residents only), Coast Rd, Apple Pie Ridge Road, Coast Ridge Road.

August 7, 2016 at 8:34 PM

Evacuations and warnings remain in place for Palo Colorado, Rancho San Carlos, Tassajara and Cachagua. New evacuation order for Big Sur. The fire crossed containment lines in Division O prompting evacuation of Big Sur. Fuel driven runs took place on the South and East side of the fire. Fire continues to burn in steep, rugged and inaccessible terrain.

Continue to extinguish hot spots along West and East flanks of the fire, Burn-out operations will continue near the Los Padres Reservoir. Fire will continue to slowly backing into the upper Carmel River Drainage within the Ventana Wilderness Area.

Currently: 34,600 acres is on Cal Fire – San Benito-Monterey Unit and 22,900 acres is on Los Padres National Forest – Monterey Ranger District

August 7, 2016 at 9:47 AM

CAL FIRE and the United States Forest Service, Los Padres National Forest remains in unified command.

Fire activity increased in the southwest portion at 1:00a.m. due to 20mph localized winds. Fuel driven runs took place on the South and East side of the fire. Fire continues to burn in steep, rugged and inaccessible terrain.

Planned actions for today: Continue to extinguish hot spots along West and East flanks of the fire, Burn-out operations will continue near the Los Padres Reservoir. Fire will continue to slowly backing into the upper Carmel River Drainage within the Ventana Wilderness Area.

Currently: 34,600 acres is on Cal Fire – San Benito-Monterey Unit and 22,900 acres is on Los Padres National Forest – Monterey Ranger District

The marine layer will be at approximately 2000 feet today. Slight warming and drying trend as weak high pressure builds. Highs 72-82 over most of the fire area but 60s coast. Smoke will inhibit some warming potential over the south side of the fire. Ridge winds remain from the west to northwest and will push smoke away from most population centers. Concern for tonight will be very low humidity readings above the marine layer.

Observed weather Saturday Night:

Wind: West 4-8 mph Localized North winds 20 mph in southwest area of fire; gusting to 40.
Temp: 50s coast…65-75 above 2000 feet.
RH: 15-30% hills above 2000 feet but 60-80% lower slopes

Expected weather for Sunday:
Wind: West 5-10 mph gusts to 15 mph
Temp: 72-82.
RH: 55-65% coast and 15-25% above 2000 feet.

August 6, 2016 at 10:13 PM
Firefighters have initiated firing operations in the Princess Camp area. Firing operations are often a critical part of fire suppression. Residents will see an increase in fire activity and smoke as the unburned fuels are removed between the main fire and the prepared control lines. Planned actions for tonight: Continue to extinguish hot spots along West and East flanks of the fire, Burn-out operations will continue near the Los Padres Reservoir. Fire will continue to slowly backing into the upper Carmel River Drainage within the Ventana Wilderness Area.

The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office is REPOPULATING the areas of WHITE ROCK . The evacuation ORDER has been made a WARNING FOR PORTIONS OF CACHAGUA and TASSAJARA, to include:

• WARNING: All residences along Cachagua Rd from Carmel Valley Rd to Nason Rd. Trampa Canyon Rd, Tassajara Rd from Carmel Valley Rd to the Tassajara Hot Springs Zen center. This includes all roads that lead from the above.

• ORDER: Cachagua Rd. between Nason Rd. and Trampa Canyon Rd. To include Nason Rd.

All residents under a warning should prepare to leave these areas listed above and be sure to take any medications, pets, family valuables, etc. with you if asked to leave. Close all windows and leave all doors closed.

August 6, 2016 at 9:49 AM

Fire behavior was minimal overnight. A planned firing operations is schedule today. The potential for burning will only be considered during favorable weather to minimize fire spread and can be conducted safely.

Structures Threatened: 2,000
Structures Destroyed:  57 homes, 11 outbuildings
Structures Damaged: 3 structures, 2 outbuildings
Injuries: 1 fatality,  2 injuries
Cause: Illegal Campfire

August 5, 2016 at 9:58 PM

There will be a Local Assistance Center for those affected by the Soberanes Fire on Saturday, August 6th. Local government and non-profit agencies will be on hand with services and information to assist residents with the recovery process.

Date: Saturday August 6th
Location: Carmel Mission Inn, 3665 Rio Road, Carmel
Hours: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

You can call the Office of Emergency helpline at 831-796-1900 for information or to request help.

Fuel driven runs took place on the South and East side of the fire. Fire continues to burn in steep, rugged and inaccessible terrain.

Currently: 33,050 acres is on Cal Fire – San Benito-Monterey Unit and 20,855 acres is on Los Padres National Forest – Monterey Ranger District.

Expected weather for Friday Night:
Wind: West 4-8 mph
Temp: 55-65.
RH: 80-90% coast and 35-50% above 2500 feet.

The marine layer will be around 2500 feet tonight with cooler temperatures and good humidity recovery over most of the fire except moderate on the hills above 3000 feet. Cooler overnight lows in the 50s and 60s. Continued cooler temperatures with a deep marine layer on Saturday, that will deepen Saturday afternoon as the next weak system pushes the marine layer to 3000 feet.

August 5, 2016 at 2:45 PM

Los Padres National Forest officials have extended the emergency forest closure on national forest lands, for the Soberanes Fire area within the Monterey Ranger District.  The closure is effective immediately and will expire when the Soberanes Fire is officially declared out. The purpose of the closure is to provide for public and firefighter safety.

The Soberanes Fire Closure Area starts in the northwest corner of the district near Mt. Carmel.  It continues east, following the National Forest boundary to its eastern most point, near Reliz Canyon.  The closure follows the forest boundary south to Nacimiento-Fergusson Road (Forest Road 22S01) and from there extends west to State Highway 1, continuing north and west along the Forest boundary to Big Sur. From Big Sur the boundary extends north to near Mt Carmel.

August 5, 2016 at 7:17 AM

A well attended public meeting was held at the Tularcito Elementary School in Carmel Valley on Thursday evening. A video of the public meeting is available on twitter @LosPadresNF

The Soberanes Fire was determined to have started from an illegal campfire. Anyone with information is asked to call the CAL FIRE Tip Line at: (800) 468-4408.

Currently: 31,800 acres is on Cal Fire – San Benito-Monterey Unit and 19,200 acres is on Los Padres National Forest – Monterey Ranger District
Evacuations: 
EVACUATION ORDERS:
For the residents of, Palo Colorado, Old Coast Road, Bixby Creek Road from Highway 1 south to Mesa, Garrapatos Road, Weston Ridge Road (aka Garrapatas Road), Robinson Canyon Road from San Clemente Trail to White Rock Gun Club, South of San Clemente Trail from Robinson Canyon to Rancho San Clemente Gate House, to include Arroyo Sequoia Road, Cachagua Road from Nason Road to Tassajara Road, Tassajara Road from Carmel Valley Road to the Tassajara Hot Springs Zen Center. This includes all roads that lead from the above described roads including Nason Road.

EVACUATION WARNINGS:
All residents of White Rock, Old Coast Road – south from Bixby Creek Road to Little Sur River, North of San Clemente Trail/Dormody Road, including Black Mountain Trail, Touche Pass, the community of San Clemente and all of Long Ridge Trail – Black Mountain is the boundary, Carmel Valley Road from San Clemente Drive to Country Road, Cachagua Road from Carmel Valley Road to Nason Road. This area includes all roads that lead from the above described roads. This does not include San Clemente Drive.

EVACUATION ORDERS LIFTED: Santa Lucia Preserve, Riley Ranch Rd and Red Wolf Drive, Corona Rd and all of Carmel Highland.

Evacuation Center: All Saints’ Day School, 8060 Carmel Valley Rd, Carmel Ca, 93923

Road Closures: 
Palo Colorado Road at Hwy 1, Robinson Canyon Road (south of San Clemente Trail), Weston Ridge RD at Hwy 1, Garrapatos Creek Rd at Hwy 1, Old Coast Rd at Hwy 1 and Bixby Bridge, Cachagau Rd South from E. Carmel Valley Rd. is open to residents only. Full Closure occurs at Nason Rd. Tassajara Rd South from Carmel Valley Rd

Donation Collection Center: 
Big Sur State Park Mul ti-Agency Building, 47555 HWY 1 Big Sur CA 93920
Website: Montereyco.recovers.org
Phone Number: (831)-667-2315

Reverse 911: You can self-register up to three phone lines on the reverse 911 system by going to www.co.montery.ca.us/oes

August 4, 2016 at 8:24 AM

Overnight fire activity was moderate.

Structures Threatened: 2,000
Structures Destroyed:  57 homes, 11 outbuildings
Structures Damaged: 3 structures, 2 outbuildings
Injuries: 1 fatality
Cause: Illegal Campfire

Cause of the Soberanes Fire was an illegal campfire. Anyone with information is asked to call the CAL FIRE Tip Line at: (800) 468-4408.

August 3, 2016 at 9:48 PM

Currently: 29,200 acres is on Cal Fire – San Benito-Monterey Unit and 17,500 acres is on Los Padres National Forest – Monterey Ranger District. The fire remained active today with continued spread to the south and east.

Marine layer will deepen to 2500 feet tonight with an increase in humidity.

Tonight’s temperature is expected to be between 65 to 75 degrees above the marine layer with 50s on Highway 1. Northwest winds will be from 5 – 10 mph with gusts 15 – 18. Relative humidity between 18 – 28% above the marine layer and 50 – 75% in the lower slopes below 2000 feet on Highway 1.

Cause of the Soberanes Fire was an illegal campfire. Anyone with information is asked to call the CAL FIRE Tip Line at: (800) 468-4408. The Damage Inspection Team continues working in collaboration with Monterey County Office of Emergency Services on assessment of damaged structures and infrastructure. A total of 57 residences and 11 outbuildings have been destroyed. Three residences and two outbuildings have been damaged. An Air Resource Advisor is assigned to the incident and is working with local and state air quality officials to analyze the impact the smoke is having on the public.

August 3, 2016 at 8:07 AM

Structures Threatened: 2,000
Structures Destroyed:  57 homes, 11 outbuildings
Structures Damaged: 3 structures, 2 outbuildings
Injuries: 1 fatality

August 2, 2016 at 5:20 PM

Cause of the #SoberanesFire was an illegal unattended campfire. Anyone with information is asked to call the CAL FIRE Tip Line 800-468-4408

— CAL FIRE BEU (@CALFIREBEU) August 3, 2016

August 2, 2016 at 8:54 AM

The fire activity was minimal through the night. An Air Resource Advisor is assigned to the incident and is working with local and state air quality officials to analyze the impact the smoke is having on the public.

Currently: 28,000 acres is on Cal Fire – San Benito-Monterey Unit and 15,400 acres is on Los Padres National Forest – Monterey Ranger District

Marine layer remains around 2000 feet deep. Ridge winds will turn westerly today but continue to be light around 5 – 10 mph. Humidity remain very dry above the marine layer along with warm to hot conditions across the interior of the fire. A deeper marine layer will continue along the coast and bring higher humid air up Carmel Valley as well. The change in ridge winds to west will turn northwest tonight. This will push smoke away from the larger populated centers of Monterey County.

Today’s temperature is expected to be between 80 to 90 degrees above the marine layer with 60s on Highway 1. West winds will be from 5 – 10 mph with afternoon gusts 15 mph. Relative humidity between 18 – 28% above the marine layer and 55 – 70% in the lower slopes below 2500 feet on Highway 1.

August 1, 2016 at 7:00 PM

Cooler weather was over the region, however, the fire continued to have moderate activity. The fire is moving in south, east and north directions on the eastern parts of the fire.

August 1, 2016 at 6:50 PM

Repopulation underway of the portions of Santa Lucia Preserve on Rancho San Carlos between Cantera Run and Garzas Trail.

August 1, 2016 at 7:58 AM

Fire activity overnight was moderate to minimal. Extremely remote and rugged terrain with limited access coupled with hot and dry weather and an above average cured grass crop has resulted in a high resistance to control.

July 31, 2016 at 6:54 PM

Slightly cooler weather, however, the fire remains active. The fire is moving south, east and north on the eastern portion of the fire.

Currently: 27,990 acres is on Cal Fire – San Benito-Monterey Unit and 12,010 acres is on Los Padres National Forest – Monterey Ranger District

A 2000 foot marine layer along the coast led to cooler temperatures and higher humidity today. Expect a deep marine push tonight with interior portions staying outside the marine layer. No big changes forecast for Monday with 2000 foot marine layer pulling back towards the coast. Warm and dry weather continues above the inversion layer with cool and moist conditions along Highway 1.

July 31, 2016 at 4:16 PM

Effective immediately, the Monterey County Sheriff’s Department has placed CACHAGUA and TASSAJARA under EVACUATION ORDERS and Warnings, which includes:

• ORDER: All residences along Cachagua Rd. from the intersection of Cachagua Rd at Nason Rd. extending to the intersection of Cachagua Rd. at Tassajara Rd. All residences on Tassajara Rd. at the intersection of E. Carmel Valley Road and Tassajara Rd. extending approximately 17 miles to the end of Tassajara Rd. at the Tassajara Hot Springs Zen Center. This includes all roads that lead from the above described roads. This area includes Nason Rd.

Residents should IMMEDIATELY leave if they are in the ORDERED areas, listed above and be sure to take any medications, pets, family valuables, etc. with you. Close all windows and leave all doors closed. 

• WARNING: Evacuation warning Cachagua area: all residents South of E. Carmel Valley Rd. starting at the intersection of E. Carmel Valley Rd. at San Clemente Dr. extending to the southeast to the intersection of E. Carmel Valley Rd. at Country Rd. The area also extends from the intersection of E. Carmel Valley Rd. at Cachgua Rd. extending south to the intersection of Cachagua Rd. at Nason Rd. This area includes all roads that lead from the above described roads. This area does include San Clemente Dr.

Residents should prepare to leave these areas listed above and be sure to take any medications, pets, family valuables, etc. with you. Close all windows and leave all doors closed. 

July 31, 2016 at 10:45 AM

Effective immediately, the Monterey County Sheriff’s Department has placed portions of the community of CACHAGUA and TASSAJARA under EVACUATION WARNING, which includes:

• All residences South of the intersection of E. Carmel Valley Rd. at San Clemente Dr. and extending to the intersection of E. Carmel Valley Rd. at Tassajara Rd. All residences along Tassajara Rd. from the intersection of Tassajara Rd. at E. Carmel Valley Rd. and extending approximately 17 miles to the end of Tassajara Rd. at the Tassajara Hot Springs Zen Center.
• This includes all roads that lead from the above described roads. This does not include residences on San Clemente Dr.

Residents should prepare to leave these areas listed above and be sure to take any medications, pets, family valuables, etc. with you. Close all windows and leave all doors closed.

July 31, 2016 at 10:07 AM

Fire behavior remained moderate overnight with continued spread to the south and east.

Currently: 26,164 acres is on Cal Fire – San Benito-Monterey Unit and 11,843 acres is on Los Padres National Forest – Monterey Ranger District

Marine layer remains fairly shallow at around 2000 feet along the west side of the fire and 1500 feet in Carmel Valley but not impacting the main fire area. Continued hot and dry across most of the fire area above 1500 feet except cooler along Highway 1 with good humidity recovery. General winds remain from the southwest and pushing smoke towards the Carmel Valley helibase and higher populated areas. Overall trend for Sunday will be slight cooling and higher humidity. Longer range trends suggest a seasonal weather pattern with light winds.

Today’s temperature is expected to be between 75 to 90 degrees, above 2,000 feet in the interior sections of the fire. Southwest winds will be from 4 – 8 mph with gust 10 – 12 mph and locally stronger near the coast. Relative humidity between 15 – 25% above 2,000 feet.

Structures Threatened: 2,000
Structures Destroyed: 57 homes, 11 outbuildings
Structures Damaged: 3 homes, 2 outbuildings
Injuries: 1 fatality

EVACUATION ORDERS LIFTED: For Riley Ranch Rd and Red Wolf Drive, Corona Rd and all of Carmel Highland.

EVACUATION ORDERS: Robinson Canyon Road from San Clemente Trail to White Rock Gun Club, the area south of San Clemente Trail from Robinson Canyon to Rancho Can Clemente Gate House, to include Arroyo Sequoia Road, community of Palo Colorado, Old Coast Road, Rocky Creek road, Bixby Creek Road from Hwy 1 south to Mesa road, from Cantera Run to Garzas Trail

EVACUATION WARNINGS: North of San Clemente Trail/Dormody Road, including Black Mountain Trail, Touche Pass, the community of San Clemente and all of Long Ridge Trail – Black Mountain is the boundary, White Rock and Old Coast Road (south from Bixby Creek to Little Sur River)

Evacuation Center: Carmel Middle School, 4380 Carmel Valley Road Carmel-By-The-Sea, Ca. 93923 (Is on standby as needed.)

Road Closures: Palo Colorado Road at Hwy 1, Robinson Canyon Road (south of Penon Peak Trail) and Weston Ridge RD at Hwy 1

July 30, 2016 at 8:31 PM

Currently 25,079 acres is on Cal Fire – San Benito-Monterey Unit and 10,461 acres is on Los Padres National Forest – Monterey Ranger District

Marine layer remains fairly shallow at around 2000 feet along the west side of the fire and 1500 feet in Carmel Valley but not impacting the main fire area. Continued hot and dry across most of the fire area above 1500 feet except cooler along Highway 1 with good humidity recovery. General winds remain from the southwest and pushing smoke towards the Carmel Valley helibase and higher populated areas. Overall trend for Sunday will be slight cooling and higher humidity. Longer range trends suggest a seasonal weather pattern with light winds.

Tonight’s temperature is expected to be between 65 to 75 degrees. Southwest winds will be from 3 – 6 mph and relative humidity between 20 – 40% above the marine layer and 60 – 80% in the lower slopes below 1000 feet.

July 30, 2016 at 9:44 AM

Pre-planning continues to mitigate potential future threat. Fire continues to burn in steep, rugged and inaccessible terrain. A State of Emergency has been declared by the Governor.

The Damage Inspection Team continues working in collaboration with Monterey County Office of Emergency Services on assessment of damaged structures and infrastructure.

A total of 57 residences and 11 outbuildings have been destroyed. Three residences and two outbuildings have been damaged.

US FOREST SERVICE TRAIL AND ROAD CLOSURES: A forest closure order has been implemented to close the trails and roads within the Los Padres National Forest, Monterey Ranger District pursuant to USC 551 and 36 CFR 261.50(a). The order prohibits going into or being upon National Forest System lands within the Soberanes Fire area.

CALIFORNIA STATE PARK CLOSURES: All California State Parks from Point Lobos State Natural Reserve through Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park are closed until further notice; which includes Andrew Molera State Park, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground and Day Use and Point Sur Historic Lighthouse.

350 residents have been evacuated along with several road closures listed in the Evacuations section below.

EVACUATION ORDERS LIFTED AT 4:00 PM JULY 29, 2016 FOR RILEY RANCH RD AND RED WOLF DRIVE, CORONA ROAD AND ALL OF CARMEL HIGHLAND. ROAD CLOSURES/RESTRICTIONS HAVE ALSO BEEN LIFTED FOR RILEY RANCH ROAD AT SR HIGHWAY 1 (RESTRICTIONS LIFTED, NO CLOSURE.) CORONA ROAD (RESTRICTIONS LIFTED, NO CLOSURE)

EVACUATION ORDERS: Robinson Canyon Road from San Clemente Trail to White Rock Gun Club, the area south of San Clemente Trail from Robinson Canyon to Rancho Can Clemente Gate House, to include Arroyo Sequoia Road, community of Palo Colorado, Old Coast Road, Rocky Creek road, Bixby Creek Road from Hwy 1 south to Mesa road, from Cantera Run to Garzas Trail

EVACUATION WARNINGS: North of San Clemente Trail/Dormody Road, including Black Mountain Trail, Touche Pass, the community of San Clemente and all of Long Ridge Trail – Black Mountain is the boundary, White Rock and Old Coast Road (south from Bixby Creek to Little Sur River)

Road closures: Palo Colorado Road at Hwy 1, Robinson Canyon Road (south of Penon Peak Trail) and Weston Ridge RD at Hwy 1

July 30, 2016 at 9:00 AM

Currently 24,839 acres is on Cal Fire – San Benito-Monterey Unit and 8,829 acres is on Los Padres National Forest – Monterey Ranger District

Marine layer remains fairly shallow at around 1000 feet but may deepen to 1500 by Saturday morning. Warm and dry conditions will continue. Winds to remain southerly, strongest on the coast and with smoke blowing northward towards Monterey and Salinas. Mid and long range forecast calls for a return to more seasonable temperatures.

Today’s temperature is expected to be between 85 to 95 degrees. Southwest winds will be from 4 – 8 mph with gusts between 10 – 12 mph and relative humidity between 13 – 23%.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to assist the state of California to combat the Sobranes Fire burning in Monterey County.

On July 28, 2016, the State of California submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) declaration for the Sobranes Fire.  At the time of the request, the fire was threatening 350 homes in and around the communities of Big Sur, Carmel Highlands, Carmel Valley, and Palo Colorado, with a total population of 3,000.  Approximately 298 of the threatened homes are primary residences and 52 are secondary homes.  Mandatory evacuations were issued for approximately 600 people. The fire was 10 percent contained.  Fire Management Assistance Grants provide federal funding for up to 75% of eligible firefighting costs.  The Disaster Relief Fund provides funding for FMAGs through FEMA to assist in fighting fires which threaten to cause major disasters.  Eligible costs covered by FMAGs can include expenses for field camps; equipment use; repair and replacement; tools; materials; supplies and mobilization; and demobilization activities.

July 29, 2016 at 10:15 AM

The fire burned actively overnight. Pre-planning continues to mitigate potential future threat. Warm and dry conditions on the fireline are forecast for today with high temperatures in the 90’s and low humidity values. Fire continues to burn in steep, rugged and inaccessible terrain. A State of Emergency has been declared by the Governor.

July 29, 2016 at 8:38 AM

The San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District has issued an air alert due to smoke impacts in San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Merced, Madera, Fresno, Kings, Tulare, and the valley portion of Kern Counties from the Soberanes Fire. This air quality alert is in effect until Friday evening July 29.

July 29, 2016 at 7:08 AM

CAL FIRE and the United States Forest Service, Los Padres National Forest remains in unified command. Fire activity during the day remained active making continued hard uphill runs with short-range spotting and crowning. The fire has impacted power transmission lines. The Incident Management Team is working collaboratively with PG&E to re-route and restore power to affected areas. A State of Emergency has been declared by the Governor.

The Damage Inspection Team continues working in collaboration with Monterey County Office of Emergency Services on assessment of damaged structures and infrastructure. A total of 41 residences and 10 outbuildings have been destroyed. Two residences and two outbuildings have been damaged.

July 28, 2016 at 3:15 PM

The public is invited to attend a community meeting on Thursday, July 28, 2016 at 6:00 p.m.:

CARMEL VALLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL
4380 Carmel Valley Road
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

Representatives from CAL FIRE, US Forest Service Los Padres National Forest, Monterey County and Monterey County Sheriff’s Office will be present to discuss details of the fire, its progress and recovery efforts.

July 28, 2016 at 7:49 AM 

34 homes, 10 outbuildings destroyed. 2 structures and 2 outbuildings damaged.  2,000 structures remain threatened.

July 27, 2016 at 9:14 PM

Very warm and extremely dry all over the fire area today. Fuel dryness is the major cause. Fire became very active in the early afternoon. Fire has a high resistant to control. Currently: 20,950 acres is on Cal Fire – San Benito-Monterey Unit and 2,618 acres is on Los Padres National Forest – Monterey Ranger District.

Tonight’s temperature is expected to be between 70 to 80 degrees, with southwest winds from 3 – 6 mph with gusts up to 10 mph and relative humidity between 9 – 19% above the marine layer and 60 – 80% in the lower slopes below 800 feet from Highway 1.

The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office has expanded EVACUATION ORDERS to include:

• Robinson Canyon Road FROM San Clemente Trail to White Rock Gun Club
• AREA SOUTH OF San Clemente Trail, FROM Robinson Canyon road to the RanchSan Clemente Gate House, TO INCLUDE the ArroySequoia Road

EVACUATION ORDERS remain in effect for:

• Palo Colorado
• A portion of Santa Lucia Preserve on San Carlos Road between Canter Run and Garza Trail
• Old Coast Road
• Corona Road, east of Highway 1
• Riley Ranch Road, east of Highway 1
• Bixby Creek Road from Highway 1 south tMesa
• Garrapatos Road
• Weston Ridge Road (aka Garrapatos Road)

In addition, The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office has expanded EVACUATION WARNING to include:

Area to the NORTH of San Clemente Trail / Dormody Road, TO INCLUDE those roads to Black Mountain Trail, Touche Pass, the community of San Clemente, AND ALL of Long Ridge Trail NOTE BLACK MOUNTAIN TRAIL IS THE NORTHERN BOUNDARY.

EVACUATION WARNINGS remain in effect for:

• Carmel Highlands
• White Rock
• Old Coast Road, south from Bixby Creek Road to Little Sur River
• RanchSan Carlos

Residents should be prepared to leave the area immediately if a Voluntary or Mandatory evacuation order is issued. If you evacuate, be sure ttake any medications, pets, family valuables, etc. with you. Close all windows, including window coverings and leave all doors closed.

July 27, 2016 at 8:18 AM

A call-when-needed dozer operator suffered fatal injuries during night time operations.

A damage inspection team is working in collaboration with Monterey County Office of Emergency Services on assessment of damaged structures and infrastructure. The DINS Team is facing downed power lines, falling trees and active areas of fire, which are hampering the inspection process.

July 27, 2016 at 7:33 AM

Fire activity has increased throughout the entire fire area with uphill runs in brush and timber. Short to medium range spotting has been observed due to lower humidity and higher temperatures.

Access continues to be challenging. Firefighters continue to fight the fire aggressively with air and ground resources. A forest closure order has been implemented to close the trails and roads within the Los Padres National Forest, Monterey Ranger District pursuant to USC 551 and 36 CFR 261.50(a). The order prohibits going into or being upon National Forest System lands within the Soberanes Fire area.

All California State Parks from Point Lobos State Natural Reserve through Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park are closed until further notice; which includes Andrew Molera State Park, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground and Day Use and Point Sur Historic Lighthouse.

A private hired equipment bull dozer rolled over with minor damage and no injuries to the operator. A group of hikers who found themselves near the fire area were safely extracted from the area due to collaborative efforts between the Monterey County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue and fire operations personnel with no injuries.

300 residents have been evacuated along with several road closures listed in the Evacuation section below.

Evacuation Order: The community of Palo Colorado, Old Coast Road, Rocky Creek road, Bixby Creek Road from Hwy 1 south to Mesa road, Corona Road, east of Highway 1, Riley Ranch Road, east of Highway 1 and Rancho San Carlos Road, from Canter Run to Garza Trail .

Evacuation Warning: Southern portions of Carmel Highlands, White Rock and Old Coast Road (south from Bixby Creek to Little Sur River)

Evacuation Center: Carmel Middle School 4380 Carmel Valley Road Carmel-By-The-Sea, Ca. 93923

Road Closures: Palo Colorado Road at Hwy 1, Robinson Canyon Road (south of Penon Peak Trail) and Weston Ridge RD at Hwy 1

July 26, 2016 at 9:03 PM

Fire activity has increased all around the fire. Movement to the east and south is most active. Uphill runs in brush and timber understory are occurring in the southeast and southwest portions of the. Lower humidity, high temperatures and strong sunlight have contributed to this change.

Tonight’s temperature is expected to be between 65 to 75 degrees, with southwest winds from 2 – 5 mph and relative humidity between 15 – 25% above the marine layer and 80% in the lower slopes below 500 feet from Highway 1.

A mandatory evacuation order is in placer for the community of Palo Colorado, Old Coast Road, Rocky Creek Road, Bixby Creek Road from Highway 1 south to Mesa Road, Corona Road and Riley Ranch, east of Highway 1. An evacuation center is set up at Carmel Middle School, located at 4380 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923

Road closures include Palo Colorado Road at Highway 1 and Weston Ridge Road at Highway 1.

July 26, 2016 at 9:43 AM 

Today’s temperature is expected to be between 84 to 94 degrees, with southerly winds from 4 – 8 mph and relative humidity between 13 – 21% above the marine layer and 60% in the lower slopes. There is a continued threat to structures, critical power infrastructure, endangered species in the Santa Lucia Preserve.

July 26, 2016 at 7:27 AM 

The fire was moderately active during the night. 1,650 structures remain threatened. Firefighters continue to fight the fire aggressively with air and ground resources. 300 residents have been evacuated along with several road closures listed below.

Evacuation Order: The community of Palo Colorado, Old Coast road, Rocky Creek road, Bixby Creek road from Hwy 1 south to Mesa road, Corona Road, east of Highway 1, Riley Ranch Road, east of Highway 1

Evacuation Warning: Southern portions of Carmel Highlands, South of Rancho South Carlos, White Rock, Old Coast Road (south from Bixby Creek to Little Sur River)

Evacuation Centers: Carmel Middle School, 4380 Carmel Valley Road Carmel-By-The-Sea, Ca. 93923

Road Closures: Palo Colorado Road at Hwy 1, Robinson Canyon Road (south of Penon Peak Trail) and Weston Ridge RD at Hwy 1

July 25, 2016 at 4:40 PM

Effective immediately portions of Carmel Highlands under evacuation order for the #SoberanesFire per @MCoSheriff

July 25, 2016 at 12:53 PM

Community meeting scheduled for updates on Soberanes Fire situation at 6 pm today at the Carmel River School, 15th Av & Monte Verde.

July 25, 2016 at 11:09 AM

Fire activity above the marine layer will continue to be very active with up hill runs where wind and slope align. The fire is burning in timber understory in the south and a mix of brush and grass through out the incident. Some short range spotting has been observed.

The Soberanes Fire started on July 22, 2016 at 8:48 a.m. in Monterey County and is located along Soberanes Creek, Garrapata State Park and north of Palo Colorado and north of Big Sur. The fire started on California State land but is now burning in Forest Service land in the Los Padres National Forest, Monterey District. The Forest Service has gone into unified command with CalFire as of this morning.

Currently, the fire has burned 14,897 acres and is 5% contained. Twenty homes and 2 outbuildings have been destroyed and 1,650 other structures are threatened. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

The fire remains active and dynamic, with access being challenging. High temperatures and low humidity are also an element that is affecting fire activity. Firefighters continue to fight the fire aggressively with air and ground resources.

July 25, 2016 at 9:44 AM

CAL FIRE and US Forest Service are now in unified command. The fire remains active and dynamic with access being challenging. High temperatures and low humidity are also an element that is affecting fire activity. Firefighters continue to fight the fire aggressively with air and ground resources.

July 25, 2016 at 7:39 AM 

Mandatory Evacuations:

Rocky Creek
Weston Ridge Road (AKA Garrapata Ridge Road)
Palo Colorado Road
Highway 1 at Old Coast Road south to Old Coast Road at Bixby Creek Road
Garrapatos Road

All residents are required to evacuate the designated area immediately!

Advisory: The community of Carmel Highlands, South of Rancho South Carlos, White Rock, Old Coast Road south from Bixby Creek Road to Little Sur River

An evacuation center has been opened at Carmel Middle School: 4380 Carmel Valley Rd, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923

July 24, 2016 at 8:43 PM

6 homes, 2 outbuildings are confirmed destroyed.

Today, firefighters experienced extreme fire behavior with uphill runs and spotting. Access to the fire remains very challenging. The fire fight continues with air and ground resources. Construction of containment lines continues by strengthening and securing control lines.

July 24, 2016 at 3:55 PM

Mandatory evacuations are in effect for Rocky Creek Road, Old Coast Road, Bixby Creek Road from Highway 1 to Middle Road.

Residents in the effected communities are required to evacuate these areas immediately.

An evacuation center is located at Carmel Middle School, 4380 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel by the Sea, 93923.

July 24, 2016 at 2:07 PM

The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office is issuing the following announcement:

Due to the potential spread of the Soberanes Fire from its current location, fire and law enforcement would like to ask the public’s assistance. We have issued a pre-evacuation warning for Rancho San Carlos, White Rock and Rancho San Clemente. A warning is used to notify residents that there is a possibility that an evacuation maybe necessary in the future.

July 24, 2016 at 10:09 AM

1,650 structures remain threatened. High temperatures and very low humidities will continue for the next few days.

July 23, 2016 at 7:55 PM

Evacuations:
Mandatory: The community of Palo Colorado
Advisory: The community of Carmel Highlands

Firefighters continue to construct containment lines while strengthening and securing control lines. High temperatures and lower humidity will continue for the next few days. Access to fire is very challenging, but firefighters are actively battling the fire from the air and on the ground. CAL FIRE Incident Management Team #4 has assumed command of the Incident today at 12:00pm.

July 23, 2016 at 6:20 PM

The fire is extremely active, burning in extremely remote and rugged terrain with limited access. Hot and dry weather coupled with a dry vegetation resulted in active fire spread. Please be careful when driving through the Garrapata State Park area as fire crews and equipment are moving in around the roadway.

All residents are asked to be Ready: Create and maintain defensible space and harden your home against flying embers. Get Set: Prepare your family and home ahead of time for the possibility of having to evacuate. Be Ready to GO!: Take the evacuation steps necessary to give your family and home the best chance of surviving a wildfire. For more information on Ready, Set, Go, visit Readyforwildfire.org

July 23, 2016 at 2:29 PM

Fire and law enforcement have issued a voluntary evacuation notice for the area of Carmel Highlands from Corona Road at the north end to south of Mal Paso Creek at Aurora Del Mar due to the potential spread of the Soberanes wildland fire to the north of its current location.

Residents are encouraged to leave the area as soon as possible. Be sure to take any medications, pets, family valuables, etc. Also, please close all windows including window coverings and leave all doors closed and unlocked.

A temporary shelter facility has been established at Carmel Middle School, 4830 Carmel Valley Road.

July 23, 2016 at 1:55 PM

Please be careful when driving through the Garrapata State Park area as fire crews and equipment are moving in around the roadway.

July 23, 2016 at 8:47 AM

Active winds and low humidity are pushing the fire.

Evacuations: Community of Palo Colorado, northern Big Sur

An evacuation center has been opened at Carmel Middle School: 4380 Carmel Valley Rd, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923

1,000 structures threatened.

Evacuations in the Palo Colorado area have been conducted throughout the night as the Soberanes fire grows over 1000 acres. The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office will continue to patrol the area as fire crews battle the blaze. Hard closures of Garrapata Creek, Weston Ridge Road and Palo Colorado are in place. There are no closures on Highway 1 and businesses in the Big Sur area are still open. Please be careful when driving through the Garrapata State Park area as fire crews and equipment are moving in around the roadway.

July 22, 2016 at 9:55 PM

Type 1 Management Team assigned.

July 22, 2016 at 8:54 PM

Per NWS Bay area, the fire is reported at 1,000 acres, burning in grass, oak woodland and timber. No threat to structures at this time.