Tamarack, Alpine County

Tamarack, Humboldt-Toiyabe NF, USFS. Sixteen miles south of Gardnerville, NV. Timber and chaparral. Active fire behavior with creeping, smoldering and backing.

August 15, 2021 at 11:38 AM

Expect smoldering and creeping. Continued consumption of unburned fuel well within the perimeter. No movement outside of the current perimeter is expected.

Isolated showers and thunderstorms will continue through the weekend, though highest chances for heavier rainfall were today. Unstable hot conditions will continue through the weekend. Drier conditions will return next week along with increasing W-SW winds Monday and Tuesday.

August 11, 2021 at 10:38 AM

Total containment is 80%. The strategy for this fire continues to be full suppression using a combination of containment in Divisions K, O and Q and confinement in Division A. Helicopters will continue to support firefighters with buckets of water on hot spots as weather and smoke conditions permits. 

Two suppression repair groups are working on priority areas to minimize impacts of fire suppression activities on natural and cultural resources. Crews are repairing dozer and hand lines to prevent soil erosion and water channeling. They are also removing hazard trees. Hazard trees are fire-damaged and likely to fall on a road or developed site, threatening firefighter and public safety.  

 
Divisions K and O – Division K is now in patrol status. An engine is supporting the repair crew and watching for any hot spots, especially near communities. In Division O, engines and crews are mopping up along the fire line and ensuring containment near homes and structures. 

Division Q – Three hand crews are working to strengthen the existing containment line and continue to mop up. 

Division A –Two self-sufficient wildland fire modules and an additional hand crew are assigned to Division A. Because of the extremely steep, rugged terrain and the lack of fire movement, firefighters are using a suppression strategy of confinement in this area. Firefighters on the ground, supported by aircraft, are ready to act in the unlikely event the fire crosses established Management Action Points in the surrounding rocky terrain. Helicopter reconnaissance flights, infrared mapping, and time-lapse cameras assist with observation 24 hours a day. 

August 7, 2021 at 9:17 AM

Creeping fire with smoldering and limited to moderate potential for spread. Single tree torching. Drying trend with light winds.

Widespread haze and smoke, sunny. Temps 83-86. Min RH 13-16%. Upslope winds 3-7 mph becoming SW 10 mph in the afternoon. HAINES 4-5, LAL 1 CWR 0%.

August 2, 2021 at 7:38 PM

The Rocky Mountain Type 1 Incident Management Team will transition command of the fire to the Sierra Front Type 3 Team 1 tonight. Both teams thank the local communities for their hospitality and assistance. 

Current Situation: Portions of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest currently have Stage II fire restrictions. With dry, windy weather returning today, please do your part to prevent new fires from starting. Campfires are prohibited at this time and smoking is limited to vegetation-free areas. Vehicles can cause sparks; ensure nothing is dragging from your car, truck, or trailer and park away from dry vegetation. Please use caution with target shooting. 

The fire is 82% contained. The rest of the uncontained fire edge is in Division A and is confined by natural barriers and limited fuels. Crews continue to patrol and mop up containment lines. Mop up is extinguishing residual fire near the perimeter to make sure it doesn’t spread outside of established containment line. Yesterday, infrared mapping guided firefighters to potential hotspots near Burnside Lake and the Hawkins Peak communication site.  

The suppression repair group continues to work on priority areas based on information from local resource advisors. A Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) team is starting on-the-ground assessment, validating information from satellites. This interagency team starts by looking for opportunities to protect soils and watersheds. Additional specialists will join them to support assessment of recreation, vegetation, archaeological, and geological resources. 

August 1, 2021 at 11:03 AM

Firefighters added new containment in Division T yesterday. The fire is now 82% contained. Crews continue to patrol and respond to calls of smoke. For extra assurance that containment line will hold, firefighters suppress smoking areas when they’re near the fire perimeter. Some fuels will continue to burn and smoke inside the fire perimeter and do not pose a threat to the containment line. Smokes inside the lines may continue until a “season-ending” weather event brings substantial rain or snow to the fire area. 

Aircraft equipped with infrared (IR) sensing technology supports firefighters on the ground. IR is a heat detection system used for mapping and hotspot identification. Maps and heat detection guide incident personnel on where to concentrate resources while crews work to hold and improve the containment lines. 

The suppression repair group used excavators to fix dozer line near Spring Valley and Woodfords yesterday, and finished chipping along SR 89. A hand crew repaired hand line near Markleeville. An excavator will continue working today near Spring Valley and chipping operations will continue on the north part of Leviathan Road. 

July 30, 2021 at 10:30 AM

Forest officials on the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest will reopen the section of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) between State Route 88 and State Route 4 (Ebbetts Pass), that was closed for public safety, after midnight tonight. Because of firefighting operations east of the PCT, hikers should be cautious and hike directly through the area, staying on the trail.  

Current Situation:  

Firefighters added approximately six miles of new containment line yesterday in the eastern portion of Division Q between Leviathan Peak and Leviathan Mine Road. The fire is now 65% contained. Firefighters continue to work around the clock to increase containment and patrol and mop up contained areas. Storms yesterday brought light, steady rain throughout the fire area. A flash flood watch is in effect from 12pm to 7pm today. 

While the fire suppression effort continues, backhauling has started. Backhauling is the process of removing equipment no longer needed from the fire area. Generators, hoses and pumps, and portable water tanks are then reconditioned and made available for use on other fires. Suppression repair continues today. Fire staff are coordinating with CalTrans for safe chipping operations along SR 89. Chipping brush that was cut during fire line construction can spread out the piles of fuel. The spread-out chips can reduce erosion by catching or slowing water runoff.  Additionally, the forest has ordered resources to support and begin Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) assessments. 

July 30, 2021 at 7:28 AM

Alpine County Sheriff’s OfficE has removed the mandatory evacuation order for the following areas effective at 7:00 am today 7/30/2021: 

Burnside Rd. & Burnside Lake

Additional evacuations are possible due to fire activity.

We strongly encourage members of the public and residents to limit travel to only essential travel in this area due to continued fire activity. Please be respectful of the crews in the area and do not interfere with firefighting activity.

July 29, 2021 at 12:55 PM

We strongly encourage members of the public and residents to limit travel near and through the fire area to only essential travel due to continued fire activity. Heavy firefighter traffic remains throughout the area and along the roadways, and utility companies are working to restore power.  

Current Situation: Much of the firefighting effort focused on the uncontained portions of the fire yesterday, especially in Divisions Q and T. They are making gains, directly attacking the fire in rugged country using aerial support, burnout operations, and other ground resources. The fire is 59% contained. The structure group is spread out through populated areas, patrolling and mopping up hot spots.  

A suppression repair group is starting work today with two crews, two excavators, and a chipper. Their goal is to reduce firefighting damage to soil, water, and other resources. Please especially use caution on State Route 89 today; the repair group will be chipping in that area. 

Branch I: Divisions K and O – The entire north and east edges of the fire are contained and in patrol status. On the western edge, crews mopped up hot spots within the containment area near Hawkins Peak. Additional firefighters will be added to this area today to ensure that any increased fire activity is addressed. Firefighters also are working near Charity Valley Creek to secure the remaining uncontained section of the western edge in Division K. 

Branch II: Firefighters are using heavy equipment and aerial resources to aid crews working on foot in difficult terrain. Helicopters are dropping water from buckets and Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) including drones are helping to visualize the fire, find areas of heat, and ignite unburned pockets of fuel. Two air tankers and ten helicopters will be in the air today, depending on weather and visibility. 

Division Q – Three crews worked yesterday in the Poison Creek area and will continue today to connect a four-mile stretch of line from the current containment line to Bryant Creek. They will continue to burn out and address hot spots in this area today and further west, aided by UAS. 

Division T – Firefighters continued working west to secure the perimeter. A UAS will assist them with scouting steep ground today, moving toward Division A. Four hotshot crews will keep securing and burning out fuels along the perimeter. Crews will also remove fire-weakened “danger trees” for safety along the road to residences near Indian Creek.  

Division A – A UAS flight gave firefighters new information yesterday to aid in formulating plans. One module addressed hot spots near the break with Division K. The other placed time-lapse cameras to continue providing information for safe fire suppression options. These modules will continue installing cameras today and engaging the fire as needed. 

Weather and Fuel Conditions: Yesterday’s thunderstorms produced little rain on the fire area. It was windy, with gusts up to 49 mph at Leviathan Peak. Today there is a 50% chance of thunderstorms and a 25% chance of wetting rain. High temperatures will range from the 70s-80s with humidity 4% higher than yesterday and continuing gusty winds. Thunderstorms are forecast for this afternoon and evening, with potential for dry lightning.  

Evacuations, Recovery, Closures, and Fire Restrictions: For specific information on evacuation and recovery actions in Alpine and Douglas Counties visit: https://www.alpinecountyca.gov/AlertCenter.aspx?AID=EVACUATION-INFORMATION-53 and https://www.douglascountynv.gov/government/departments/emergency_management/current_emergencies/tamarack_fire__markleeville__c_a  

For closures and fire restrictions on National Forest lands visit: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/htnf/alerts-notices  

Grover Hot Springs State Park remains closed to the public. Burnside Lake is the only area under evacuation. 

A temporary flight restriction (TFR) remains in place. TFR violations can disrupt aerial firefighting operations and may force fire managers to ground essential aircraft. Wildfires are a no-fly zone for unauthorized aircraft, including drones. If you fly, we can’t. For more information, visit http://knowbeforeyoufly.org. 

July 29, 2021 at 7:47 AM

Liberty update for 7/29.

Generators are being set up for Coleville/Walker customers at the request of NV Energy for load curtailment while they repair their lines damaged in the Tamarack Fire. Customers may experience a short outage tonight or tomorrow morning while transferring over to generator power. We will provide more information when the generator is being started once available. Liberty has an updated schedule for a helicopter to set poles and string wire in difficult terrain for Saturday-Monday.

July 27, 2021 at 9:36 AM

Residents returning to their homes following evacuations should be aware that there may still be fire activity nearby. Smoke and possible isolated flare-ups may occur for several weeks within the fire area as the fire burns through isolated fuels such as dead or downed trees. There is still firefighting work being done in many areas. Use caution on roadways, as firefighting vehicles will also be sharing the roads.

Grover Hot Springs State Park remains closed to the public due to the impacts from the Tamarack Fire.

Current Situation:

A change in the weather brought much-needed moisture onto the fire area yesterday. A group of afternoon thundershowers dropped heavy rain onto some sections of the fire. Last night steady rainfall covered the entire fire area.

Firefighters yesterday made more progress securing the fire perimeter. Containment is now at 54%. Evacuations were lifted for the Blue Lakes area, Holbrook Junction/Highlands and Spring Valley. The only remaining evacuations are for people living in the SR 4 corridor from Hwy 89 to Ebbetts and Burnside Lake area.

Road Closures: Hwy 89 is closed between Hwy 88 and Hwy 395 to all traffic except local residents and incident personnel. Hwy 4 is closed throughout the fire area to all traffic except incident personnel.

Branch I: Division K Firefighters finished mopping up hot spots in Spring Valley yesterday. Mopping up is when firefighters extinguish or remove burning material near control lines and take other actions to make an area safe. Today crews will patrol the edge and be ready to respond if lightning from potential storms ignites any new fires.

Division O After several days of work on the fire’s edge, hand crews were successful in containing the northeast corner of the slopover fire that crossed Hwy 395 last week. Firefighters also secured a section south of Holbrook. The entire east side of the fire is now contained. Today crews will mop up hot spots in the Holbrook area. Structure protection crews will continue to patrol communities along the 395 corridor.

Branch II: Division Q New containment was added yesterday stretching from the southeast corner of the fire west to just below Leviathan Peak. Crews worked from there to establish new line, getting support from helicopters that dropped water to cool the fire’s edge. Today firefighters will continue their direct attack and work the fire towards the Leviathan Mine.

Division T is now fully staffed with crews and heavy equipment, looking to directly engage the fire where possible to safely do so. Yesterday firefighters scouted and began work on new fireline. The effort continues today.

Division A is adding a second wildland module of firefighters today. The fire is burning in steep, rugged, scattered fuels. Supervisors will continue to look for opportunities to engage the fire while limiting risk to firefighters.

Branch III: Division F Firefighters secured two more sections of line yesterday. The western edge of the fire is now contained from Burnside Lake north to Crystal Springs. Today crews will patrol the area looking for any hot spots. They will also help with structure protection in nearby communities.

Weather & Fuel Conditions:

Today will be cooler and windier with higher winds in the afternoon and another chance for thunderstorms. High temperatures will range from 71-83 degrees over the fire area. Fire activity will be moderate in the morning because of yesterday’s rain, but fuels will dry out quickly.

July 27, 2021 at 8:45 AM

The Alpine County Sheriff’s Office has set up a temporary dispatch line and non-emergency line.

Alpine County Sheriff’s Office Non-Emergency Line: 530-721-0757
Alpine County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Line: 775-782-5126

EMERGENCY DIAL 911

Road Closures

State Route 89 from the junction of Highway 88 to Highway 395 (Evacuee Access Allowed)
State Route 4 from the junction of Statue Route 89 to the Silver City Gate

July 25, 2021 at 6:55 PM

Alpine county sheriff’s office has removed the mandatory evacuation order for the following areas effective at 2 pm today 7/25/2021:

1. HUNG-A-LEL-TI – ORDER REMOVED 7/23/2021
2. MESA VISTA – ORDER REMOVED 7/24/2021
3. DIAMOND VALLEY ROAD
4. CARSON RIVER ROAD
5. WOODFORDS
6. ALPINE VILLAGE
7. MARKLEEVILLE
8. MARKLEE VILLAGE
9. SHAY CREEK
10. GROVER HOT SPRINGS & CAMPGROUND
11. EAST FORK RESORT
12. CRYSTAL SPRINGS
13. DOUGLAS WAY
14. WYLDER RESORT
    MANDATORY EVACUATIONS STILL IN PLACE FOR THE FOLLOWING AREAS:
15. BLUE LAKES ROAD
16. UPPER & LOWER BLUE LAKES CAMPGROUNDS
17. STATE ROUTE 4 CORRIDOR FROM JUNCTION SR 89 TO EBBETTS

Residents must have proof of residence (id or utility bill) with the residential address to bypass the highway 88 road closure. Highway 88 will remain closed and only residents from the repopulated areas may enter. Residents are encouraged to use extreme caution when reentering the area and it is advised not to leave residences except for necessities. If residents are bringing visitors to assist with the repopulation efforts, please ensure they are with a resident in order to secure passage through the roadblock.

Additional evacuations are possible due to fire activity.

July 25, 2021 at 9:26 AM

Containment of the Tamarack Fire has jumped to 27% today. This follows a second consecutive day in which conditions allowed firefighters to directly engage the edge of the fire on several fronts. Crews will work to continue that progress today, with the 395 corridor and the southern edge of the fire among the top priorities. Challenges include smoke coming from the Tamarack Fire and the Dixie Fire, which is burning to the northwest. Reduced visibility could limit the use of firefighting aircraft. There is also the potential for severe winds and lightning caused by thunderstorms moving into the area this afternoon.

Yesterday, Alpine County removed the mandatory evacuation order for the Mesa Vista community. The estimated number of people of evacuated is now 2289. Incident personnel and local authorities continue to meet daily to assess the fire, its impact on communities and infrastructure, and the status of evacuations.

Closures: Hwys 88, 89 and 4 remain closed in the fire area to all traffic except incident personnel. A portion of Hwy 395 also remains closed for firefighter and public safety. 

Branch I:  Division K Firefighters working from west to east along the northern edge of the fire completed a new stretch of containment line from the Carson River east to Bryant Creek yesterday.  Another crew that started from the east at Hwy 395 continued their work westward. Today, both crews will continue to work towards each other, with the goal of fully containing the entire northern edge of the fire. In the Spring Valley area, firefighters will work to put out hot spots and secure fireline around the community.

In Division L, crews continue efforts to contain the slopover fire that spilled across Hwy 395 last week. Firefighters are “going direct”, meaning they are working right on edge of the fire. They are being supported by helicopters, which drop buckets of water to cool the edge and slow down fire activity.

Firefighters with Division O are also helping with the effort to secure the southern portion of the slopover, east of 395. They made good progress up to the northeast corner yesterday, and will monitor the line today, making sure it holds. Crews also are working in and around Holbrook, where there is still active fire. Fuels remain critically dry, and firefighters are being diligent in efforts to extinguish hot spots and ensure that fireline is secure. Further south, containment has been added to the eastern edge of the fire along Hwy 395, north of Topaz Lake.  Structure protection crews continue to work day and night along the 395 corridor to keep fire from impacting neighborhoods in the area.

Division Q The southern edge of the fire is one of the top priorities for firefighters. Yesterday, crews directly engaged the fire, starting at Hwy 395, working to the west. They are using a combination of burnout operations, hand crews directly engaging the edge and aerial resources.  Aerial support today may be limited because of smoke that has pushed over the fire area from the Dixie Fire, which reduces visibility. Fire managers continue to assess their options, and they also have a plan in place to develop contingency line further south along the Hwy 89 corridor, if needed.

Branch II:  To the south, the fire continues to burn in steep, hard-to reach terrain with slow, limited movement. Staff is being added to Division T today. Firefighters there are scouting locations to insert crews to help secure the southwest corner of the fire.  Division Z remains unstaffed.  As resources become available, work to establish fireline will be implemented. Monitoring of the divisions from the air continues.

Branch III: Division A has been unstaffed, but, as firefighters finish work securing fireline in Division O, they will shift down to Division A.  Where safe to do so, hand crews will directly engage the fire to establish containment.

In Division F, firefighters secured the northwest corner of the fire. Containment was added from Crystal Springs south to an area below Hawkins peak, building on containment line previously established on the northern edge. Crews also completed containment on a stretch leading further south to Burnside Lake. Today, firefighters are working to address a few small, but hard to access stretches of uncontained fire along the western side of the fire.  When this work is completed, they’ll move south into Division A to help with containment efforts. Structure protection crews are out again today and tonight, patrolling communities including Sierra Pines, Crystal Springs, Woodfords Markleeville and Grover Hot Springs.

July 24, 2021 at 9:08 AM

Fire is burning in mixed conifer, Pinyon-Juniper and brush fuel types with high rates of spread. Crowning, torching, and running fire behavior. Short and mid-range spotting is prolific in lower elevation fuels.

Alpine County Sheriff’s Office and El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office are providing escorts for residents located in the evacuation area to secure pets, papers and emergency items. Escorts will take place from 9:30 AM – 12 PM and 1:30 PM to 5 PM on July 24, 2021. Locations in the evacuation area are dependent on fire activity. Additional escorts on future dates will be determined by fire activity. If you are interested in receiving an escort to your residence please proceed to the Nevada/California Stateline located on Foothill Rd.

Planned actions:

Branch I – Hold fire south of China Spring. Secure Hwy 395 slopover. Secure structures along Hwy 395, Topaz Ranch Estates, and Smith Valley.

Branch II – continue to scout indirect Line opportunities from Leviathan Peak west to Q/T break.

Branch III – Hold fire south of Hwy 88. Secure structures in Crystal Springs. Hold fire east of Rocky Spine Ridge.

Structure – Secure structures along Hwy 395, Spring Valley, and Holbrook.

Night Operations – Patrol and secure structures along Hwy 88 and Hwy 395. Conduct firing operations as conditions allow (BR I and III).

July 23, 2021 at 12:09 PM

Current Situation:

Portions of Tamarack Fire showed extreme fire behavior yesterday. The fire spotted to the east side of Hwy 395 near Holbrook Junction. By 4 p.m., air resources estimated the spot had grown to 2,500 acres. It is now well established on the ridge NW of Topaz Ranch Estates. Firefighters on the ground and aircraft continue to battle the fire under exceptionally difficult weather and fuel conditions. An additional 1,369 people were evacuated primarily from the Hwy 395 corridor, bringing the total number of those evacuated to 2,439.

The fire grew about 7,000 acres yesterday to 58,417 acres. The fire is still 4% contained overall, though containment along the Carson River Road Corridor and portions of Diamond Valley Road increased. There are 1,353 personnel working on the fire and more resources are on order. Firefighting operations continue around the clock, with additional crews added to the night shift. Night operations include structure protection and firing operations when conditions are right.

Firefighters have continued to keep the fire south of the Hwy 88. Hwy 88 & 89 remain closed in the fire area to all traffic except incident personnel. A portion of Hwy 395 remains closed for firefighter and public safety.

Branch I: Division K, the northern portion of the fire didn’t move much yesterday. Hotshot crews were inserted at the two spots fires north of the East Fork Carson River and were able to accomplish some good work to contain the spots. Crews continued to make good progress along Hwy 89 and increased the length of containment line in the Carson River Road corridor and Diamond Valley Road. Today, crews will continue to secure line and complete prep on dozer lines south of China Springs Youth Camp. Crews will continue construction of indirect line between Leviathan Road and Carson River. Structure protection work continues for the Washoe Indian Colony and the Diamond Valley Road areas with patrol and mop up along the edge of the fire.

Division O remains a high priority and faces significant fire behavior with wind driven runs. Yesterday, the fire made a hard push and jumped east of Hwy 395 near Holbrook Junction where by 4 p.m. it had grown to 2,500 acres.  Last night, crews improved firelines around Holbrock Estates and air operations dropped retardant in the Topaz Estates area. Structure protection forces remain present in the Spring Valley area. Today, firefighters will identify contingency lines east of the highway and scout potential direct fireline options to tie into the old Washington Fire. Crews will continue to map structure locations and conduct firing operations along Hwy 395 as conditions allow.  Night crews will continue point protection throughout the area and will continue mop-up and patrol around structures.

Division Q is unstaffed due to limited resources and higher priority in Div O. It will continue to be monitored from the air. This area continues to show limited fire growth.

Branch II:  On the south end, there was little movement of the fire. Divisions T and Z were lightly staffed due to higher priorities. Personnel continued to scout the area and identify options for direct and indirect fireline construction. Monitoring from the air continues.

Branch III: Division A, the SW portion of the fire, will continue to be monitored from the air. The fire is creeping but has had very little movement. As need dictates and additional resources arrive, crews will begin to construct fireline in the area.

In Division F, fire continued to back and flank towards Hwy 88, with minimal growth. Today, crews will continue burnout from Monroe Ranch Road to Crystal Springs and mop up fireline from Davis Ranch to Monroe Ranch Road. Crews will work to hold the fireline from Davis Ranch to Crystal Springs. Crews will continue to strengthen established firelines and hold the fire south of Hwy 88 while continuing to scout for contingency lines, including natural barriers and roads.  The structure protection group will continue to provide point protection in Sierra Pines, Woodfords, Mesa Vista, Markleeville and Grover Hot Springs, along with other structures in the division

Weather & Fuel Conditions:

Weather continues to be hot, dry, and unstable. Today will be sunny with smoke and haze. Temperatures will range between 78-88 and minimum humidity will be 15-20%. SW winds of 10-15 mph with gusts to 40 mph are predicted for this afternoon and evening along ridgetops.  In the valleys, upslope winds will be 4-8 mph for most of the day, becoming SW 8-13 mph with gusts up to 25 mph late in the afternoon. Terrain driven winds are expected for most of the day, except for increasing NW winds late in the afternoon and evening. Winds will calm down overnight for most areas. There is a chance of thunderstorms returning for the weekend and likely into early next week.

Evacuations, Closures, and Fire Restrictions:

For evacuation notice specifics in Alpine and Douglas Counties visit: https://www.alpinecountyca.gov/AlertCenter.aspx?AID=EVACUATION-INFORMATION-53 and

https://www.douglascountynv.gov/government/departments/emergency_management/current_emergencies/tamarack_fire__markleeville__c_a

For road closure specifics visit https://roads.dot.ca.gov/ and https://nvroads.com/.

For closures and fire restrictions on National Forest lands, visit

https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/htnf/alerts-1069notices/?cid=fseprd573309

July 23, 2021 at 9:52 AM

Extreme winds pushed the Tamarack Fire across US 395 yesterday afternoon, leading to an intense battle to protect communities last night, which continues today.

Alpine County Sheriff’s Office and El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office are providing escorts for residents located in the evacuation area to secure pets, papers and emergency items. Escorts will take place from 9:30 AM – 12 PM and 1:30 PM to 5 PM on July 23, 2021. Locations in the evacuation area are dependent on fire activity. Additional escorts on future dates will be determined by fire activity. If you are interested in receiving an escort to your residence please proceed to the Nevada/California Stateline located on Foothill Rd.

Evacuee Information

Alpine County in collaboration with Douglas County and Douglas County Community Services established an evacuation shelter at the Douglas County Community and Senior Center located at 1329 Waterloo Ln., Gardnerville, NV 89410. It is recommended that any evacuees needing shelter, food or supplies go to the location and register. Additionally, anyone looking for information on evacuees should check in at the registration desk.

Liberty continues to work with the Tamarack Fire Incident Command Center.

• Incident Command determines what powerlines must be shut down for personnel safety.
• Rebuilding of electric infrastructure continues in the areas Liberty can access.
• At the direction of the Tamarack Fire Incident Command Center, Liberty was instructed to turn off power in the Woodfords Canyon area at 8:30am on 7/22/21. No estimated restoration time is currently available.
• At the direction of the Tamarack Fire Incident Command Center, NV Energy was instructed to turn off the line that provides power to Liberty customers in the Coleville/Walker/Antelope Valley area at 3:30pm on 7/22/21. No estimated restoration time is currently available.
• In recognition of the challenges associated with the Tamarack Fire that are impacting the local community, Liberty delayed the distribution of billing statements for July 2021.
• Customers with an active account in the Markleeville / Woodfords area can expect to receive two billing statements in the month of August due to the delay of July statements.
• Customers will not be charged any late fees in connection with the delayed distribution of these billing statements.
• If you have established autopay on your Liberty account, please note the amounts owing will not draft this month (July 2021). When you receive your August statements, please see the due dates of each bill. The amounts owing will draft on the established due dates showing on those statements. If this is concerning to you at this time, please contact our office prior to the due dates listed and a Customer Service Representative will help to process the suspension of your autopay account.
• If you have questions or are experiencing financial hardship, please contact our customer care team directly at 1-800-782-2506 to discuss.

July 22, 2021 at 9:29 AM

Alpine County Sheriff’s Office and El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office are providing escorts for residents located in the evacuation area to secure pets, papers and emergency items. Escorts will take place from 9:30 AM – 12 PM and 1:30 PM to 5 PM on July 22, 2021. Locations in the evacuation area are dependent on fire activity. Additional escorts on future dates will be determined by fire activity. If you are interested in receiving an escort to your residence please proceed to the Nevada/California Stateline located on Foothill Rd.

Planned actions: Continue structure protection efforts at all areas currently being impacted by fire and continue securing established line around Markleeville by mopping up and improving line. Continue line construction along northwest flank in DIV F to limit fire spread to the north towards Highway 88. Staff DIV T as resources become available and begin line construction at Highway 89 progressing to the southwest. Continue structure prep along Highway 395 from Leviathan Road to Topaz Lake. Prep structures in China Spring area. Look for direct and indirect opportunities to protect values at risk. Particularly threatened are values along Highway 395. Evaluate and establish additional Management Action Points.

July 21, 2021 at 5:44 PM

US-395 closed both directions near China Springs Road and Holbrook Jct.

Fire activity has increased on the Tamarack Fire this afternoon. In Division F, firefighters are reporting winds out of the northwest. The fire is still south of the CA-88 road and west of the CA-89 road. Crews will continue to work in this area to keep the fire from crossing the road.

In Division O, the fire has advanced further to the east and has reached the dozer line behind the Spring Valley Subdivision. Firefighters are currently holding the fire on the dozer line. Flames are visible from the highway. Due to an increase in fire traffic and fire firefighters working in the area, Hwy 395 has been closed. Crews have been establishing indirect fireline as a means to protect structures along the highway.

July 21, 2021 at 10:09 AM

The Rocky Mountain Area Type 1 Incident Management Team assumed command of the fire yesterday at 6:00 am. A public fire information briefing was held last night, it may be viewed at www.facebook.com/tamarackfireinfo under videos or on https://bit.ly/TamarackVideo.

Current Situation:

Last night, the Tamarack Fire crossed the state line a short distance into Douglas County, Nevada.  It remains west of Hwy 395.  The fire is approximately 40,000 acres and is 0% contained. Over 1,200 personnel are working on the fire and more resources are on order. Voluntary evacuations were issued for all residents in Leviathan Mine Rd. west of Hwy 395 and Holbrook Junction areas last night. Residents can utilize the Topaz Ranch Estates (TRE) Community Center as an evacuation site.  Active fire behavior continued in areas where fire has been established. Firefighting operations are continuing throughout the night. Night operations include firing operations, when conditions are right, and structure protection.

Public and firefighter safety is our highest priority. As firefighters are working along the highways and roads, we ask for your patience and request the public to limit travel to give the firefighters safe space to work.

Branch I: Division O is a high priority and will see active fire. Last night, the fire crossed the Leviathan Mine Road and did cross into Nevada. The fire is approximately 3 miles west of Hwy 395. Crews worked off Hwy 395 building dozer and hand line with the goal of keeping the fire west of the highway. NV Energy will have crews with masticators working to protect the powerlines. Structure protection continues to focus on assessment and preparation.  In Division K, crews continued mop up activities, improving dozer and hand lines, working to secure the fireline. Today, resources will continue to construct indirect line between Leviathan Road and the East Fork Carson River to create a barrier between the main fire and Hwy 395. Fire activity is expected to pick up this afternoon due to continued hot, dry weather. 

Branch II:  In the southeastern portion of the fire, in Divisions T and Z, fire behavior increased in the afternoon. The Division Supervisor and Branch Director continued to scout the area, assessing options for indirect and direct fireline construction. As additional resources arrive, crews will begin to construct fireline in the area.

Branch III: Division F, the northwest side of the fire, is another high priority area. Yesterday, there was active fire in the heavy fuels mainly due to slope alignment. Crews were putting in hand and dozer line near Hwy 88 to hold the fire south of the highway. Today, crews will strengthen the dozer line above Zelmer Road to the Carson River.  A portion of Hwy 88 has been closed due to heavy fire traffic and firefighters working in the area.  Hwy 89 continues to be closed throughout the fire area.  Structure protection will continue to provide point protection as needed in Sierra Pines, Woodfords, Mesa Vista, Markleeville and Grover Hot Springs, along with other structures in the division.

Weather & Fuel Conditions:

Dry southwest airflow continues over the region. Unstable conditions remain with a HAINES of 5 this afternoon. The Haines index is used to indicate the potential for wildfire growth by measuring the stability and dryness of the air over a fire. The warming and drying trend continues through the week with breezy afternoon and evening “Zephyr” winds. The winds will be the driver of the fire with wind gusts of 22-25 mph predicted for today. Fuels remain very dry and fire behavior will continue to be aggressive, with potential for high rates of fire spread. Temperatures will be warmer, 78–88 degrees, and humidity will be drier at 10 – 20%.

Evacuations, Closures, and Fire Restrictions: For the latest information about pre-evacuation or evacuation notices, visit: https://www.alpinecountyca.gov/AlertCenter.aspx?AID=EVACUATION-INFORMATION-53

For the latest on area, road, and trail closures and fire restrictions on National Forest lands, visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/htnf/alerts-1069notices/?cid=fseprd573309 .

Temporary Flight Restriction (TRF): A TFR is in place over the Tamarack Fire. Wildfires are a No Drone Zone. If you fly, we can’t. Whenever a drone is spotted near the fire all aircraft are grounded until we can be sure the drone is clear of the area. For more information, visit http://knowbeforeyoufly.org.

July 21, 2021 at 8:44 AM

Alpine County Sheriff’s Office and El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office are providing escorts for residents located in the evacuation area to secure pets, papers and emergency items. Escorts will take place from 9:30 AM – 12 PM and 1 PM to 5 PM on July 21, 2021. Additional escorts on future dates will be determined by fire activity. If you are interested in receiving an escort to your residence please proceed to the Nevada/California Stateline located on Foothill Rd.

July 20, 2021 at 9:04 PM

Voluntary evacuations have been issued for all residents in Leviathan Mine Rd. and Holbrook Junction areas. All residents can utilize the Topaz Ranch Estates (TRE) Community Center as an evacuation site. Emergency warnings are being sent to cell phones followed by emergency personnel.

The evacuation location for livestock:The Carson City Fairgrounds/Fuji Park. The park cannot shelter small domestic pets such as dogs and cats. Please provide food for your livestock, as it will not be provided by the facility. It is also encouraged to bring water buckets if possible.

Evacuation Location: TRE Community Center3939 Carter Dr. Wellingotn, NV 89444

July 20, 2021 at 10:25 AM

Tamarack Fire is approximately 39,045 acres and is 0% contained. Nearly 1,100 personnel are working on the fire and more resources are on order. The objective for managing the fire is full suppression, and all efforts will be directed towards meeting that objective with public and firefighter safety foremost in mind.

As a fire gets larger and additional resources are brought in, the fire is broken into geographic areas called Branches and Divisions to help focus suppression efforts and to help with supervisory span of control. We will use these terms in our updates to provide specific information about each part of the fire perimeter. Branches and Divisions are shown on the fire maps.

Branch I: Today in Division K, firefighters will focus on improving the existing dozer and hand firelines on the north side of the fire and extending them further to the east. In Division O, where the fire was very active yesterday, the focus will be on looking for options for direct and indirect fireline construction that will prevent further movement to the east. This is the highest priority for today. Along Hwy 395, a structure protection group will be conducting structure assessments and doing structure preparation where needed in the event the fire makes another push to the east and impacts the area.

Branch II: Fire personnel in Divisions T and Z on the south end of the fire will be scouting the area looking for options for fireline construction. There has been little recent fire movement in this area, so it is lower priority than other areas of the fire. Once additional resources arrive, fireline construction in the area will begin.

Branch III: On the west side of the fire in Division F, the fire was active into the night, burning west of CA-89 and south of CA-88. This is another high priority area of the fire. The structure protection group will be providing point protection as needed in Sierra Pines, Woodford, and around other structures in the division. Firefighters will be scouting for potential direct fireline options. Division A will be monitored today pending arrival of additional resources that have been ordered.

Weather & Fuel Conditions: About 0.05” of rain fell on the fire yesterday, and a few isolated lightning strikes occurred on the fire’s north side. The next several days will bring a warming and drying trend with light upslope winds changing to the SW at 10-15 mph in the afternoons, gusting to 25 on ridgetops. Fuels remain very dry and fire behavior will continue to be aggressive, with potential for high rates of fire spread.

Evacuations, Closures, and Fire Restrictions: For the latest information about pre-evacuation or evacuation notices, visit https://www.alpinecountyca.gov/AlertCenter.aspx?AID=TAMARACK-FIRE-Evac-Center-at-Douglas-Cou-43. For the latest on area, road, and trail closures and fire restrictions on National Forest lands, visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/ detail/htnf/alerts-1069notices/?cid=fseprd573309 .

July 19, 2021 at 10:00 PM

Efforts to use aircraft today get a more accurate acreage and location for the fire perimeter were unsuccessful due heavy smoke and afternoon thunderstorms that brought a small amount of rain to the area along with lightning.

Wind from the thunderstorms increased fire activity, moving the fire to the northeast toward the California-Nevada state line and the US-395 corridor. Crews are working to prevent the fire from impacting US-395 and the surrounding area.

Firefighters continue to mop up around Markleeville and Grover Hot Springs. Crews on the ground were assisted by helicopters providing water drops. Single-engine air tankers also dropped retardant to protect communications towers on Hawkins Peak.

On the northeast portion of the fire, point protection around structures remains a priority for firefighters. Crews are working a night shift again tonight.

Evacuations: Today, the Alpine County Sheriff’s Office ordered mandatory evacuations for the Blue Lakes Road area at 11:30 a.m. and the Mesa Vista area at about 3 p.m. Markleeville, Grover Hot Springs and campground area, Shay Creek, Marklee Village, Alpine Village, Woodfords, East Fork Resort and the community of Hung A Lel Ti are under still under evacuation orders.

Closures: Highway 89 is closed at the intersection of Highway 4 and 89. Highway 4 is open west of the Highway 89 and Highway 4 junction. Please slow down and drive with caution in the area as fire crews continue to work. Refer to https://roads.dot.ca.gov/ for closure specifics.

The Pacific Crest Trail is closed between Carson Pass (Highway 88) and Ebbetts Pass (Highway 4).

Weather and Smoke: Temperatures are expected to warm up over the coming days. Carson Valley and surrounding areas can expect to continued impacts from smoke and ash fall. Individuals with compromised respiratory systems are encouraged to limit outdoor exposure, if possible.

TFR: A temporary flight restriction is in place. Details can be found at https://tfr.faa.gov/save_pages/detail_1_1436.html

July 19, 2021 at 7:41 PM

Per the WildCAT, the fire is estimated at 39,045 acres.

July 19, 2021 at 3:15 PM

Per Alpine County Sheriff: Mandatory evacuations ordered for MESA VISTA

July 19, 2021 at 2:13 PM

The Alpine County Sheriff’s Office has ordered the mandatory evacuation of Blue Lakes Road effective 11:30 AM on July 19, 2021. They are asking all residents and visitors to safely leave the area.

Mandatory Evacuation: Markleeville, Grover Hot Springs and campground area, Shay Creek, Marklee Village, Alpine Village, Woodfords, East Fork Resort and Hung A Lel Ti, Blue Lakes Rd.

Evacuee Information: Alpine County, in collaboration with Douglas County and Douglas County Community Services, established an evacuation shelter at the Douglas County Community and Senior Center located at 1329 Waterloo Ln., Gardnerville, NV 89410. It is recommended that any evacuees needing shelter, food or supplies go to the location and register.

July 19, 2021 at 12:08 PM

The fire is estimated at 23,078 acres with no containment reported. An infrared flight scheduled to fly the fire overnight was canceled due to smoke and weather conditions. Differences in reported acreage are due to estimates by crews on the ground. As soon as conditions allow, a mapping flight will be conducted to provide more accurate information about the size and location of the fire.

Firefighters plan to continue point protection efforts around structures in all areas currently being impacted by fire. Crews will continue securing established line around Markleeville by mopping up hot spots. Last night, a firing operation was completed along a containment line established from Highway 89 to Diamond Valley Road. Crews will continue to improve and mop up this line today. Firefighters are working to limit fire spread north towards Highway 88 and Carson Canyon. Today, as resources become available, they will begin line construction at Highway 89 moving to the southwest.

A damage assessment team has been ordered and will begin working in the fire area to determine exactly how many structures have been destroyed or damaged.

July 19, 2021 at 6:45 AM

Continue structure protection efforts at all areas currently being impacted by fire and begin securing established line around Markleeville by mopping up and improving line.

Continue line construction along northwest flank in DIV K, and DIV A to limit fire spread to the north towards Highway 88 and Carson Canyon.

Extend containment lines in DIV O. Staff DIV T as resources become available and begin line construction at Highway 89 progressing to the southwest.

July 18, 2021 at 7:13 PM

Extreme fire behavior in the form of crowning, spotting and surface runs along active perimeter of the fire. Fire is burning in mixed conifer, heavy mountain brush/grass, sage and juniper.

July 18, 2021 at 9:16 AM

The fire has led Forest officials on the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest to close a portion of the Pacific Crest Trail. The fire is northeast of the trail near Raymond Peak (around mile 1060) in the Pleasant Valley Creek area.

The fire is estimated to have grown to 18,299 acres and is still 0% contained. There is a red flag warning today from 11 AM through tomorrow at 11 AM. There are thunderstorms predicted today in the afternoon that may cause erratic winds in the fire area.

Today, firefighters will continue to actively suppress the fire where they can do so safely. Crews will be focusing on preserving life and property with point protection of structures and putting in containment lines where possible. Aviation resources are available to assist with water delivery when smoke conditions allow. The fire continues to impact the community of Markleeville and the surrounding areas.

 Evacuations: Mandatory evacuations are in place for the following areas: Grover Hot Springs, Shay Creek, MarkleeVillage, Markleeville, Carson River Resort, & Poor Boy Road area, Wolf Creek Campground, Silver Creek Campground, ADDITIONALLY Sierra Pines, Upper and Lower Manzanita, Crystal Springs, Alpine Village, Diamond Valley Road and Hung-a-lel-ti are now under mandatory evacuations.

July 17, 2021 at 8:22 PM

Forced by gusty winds, critically dry fuels and low relative humidity the Tamarack Fire exhibited rapid rates of spread and an increase in fire behavior throughout the day. The fire is estimated to have grown to 21,000 acres today and is still 0% contained. The fire continues to burn in a northwesterly direction, west of Markleeville towards the Highway 89 corridor. The increase in fire activity forced an evacuation of Alpine Village and Woodfords this morning.

The fire crossed the East Fork of the Carson River near the East Fork Resort and moved into lighter fuels which aided in the fire’s growth to the north during the afternoon hours.

This evening, firefighters will continue to actively suppress the fire where they can safely do so utilizing a variety of tactics, natural barriers and targets of opportunity. The fire continues to impact the community of Markleeville and the surrounding areas. It has been confirmed by Alpine County, that 2 structures were destroyed by the fire last night.

Evacuations: Mandatory evacuations are in place for the following areas: Grover Hot Springs, Shay Creek, MarkleeVillage, Markleeville, Carson River Resort, & Poor Boy Road area, Wolf Creek Campground, Silver Creek Campground, ADDITIONALLY Sierra Pines, Upper and Lower Manzanita, Crystal Springs, Alpine Village, Diamond Valley Road and Hung-a-lel-ti are now under mandatory evacuations. “The Mesa” is under a voluntary evacuation (as of 3:00pm) but conditions are changing fast.

Closures: Highway 89 is closed at the intersection of Highway 4 and 89. Highway 4 is currently open west of the Highway 89 and Highway 4 junction. Please slow down and drive with caution in the area as fire crews and equipment will continue to arrive throughout the evening. Please refer to https://roads.dot.ca.gov/ for closure specifics.

Smoke: Due to an increase in fire activity and the growth the Tamarack Fire exhibited today, the Carson Valley and surrounding areas will continue to be heavily impacted by smoke and moderate ash fall throughout the evening and into the morning hours. Individuals with compromised respiratory systems are encouraged to limit outdoor exposure if possible.

July 17, 2021 at 3:49 PM

Rocky Basin IMT1 (Dallas) committed to Tamarack (NV-HTF) in the Great Basin 7/19 @ 12:00.

July 17, 2021 at 3:28 PM

Air response limited due to building smoke.

Mandatory evacuations are in place for the following areas: Grover Hot Springs, Shay Creek, MarkleeVillage, Markleeville, Carson River Resort, & Poor Boy Road area, Wolf Creek Campground, Silver Creek Campground, ADDITIONALLY Sierra Pines, Upper and Lower Manzanita, Crystal Springs, Alpine Village, Diamond Valley Road and Hung-a-lel-ti are now under mandatory evacuations. “The Mesa” is under a voluntary evacuation but conditions are changing fast. Please stay out of these areas to allow emergency personnel to do their jobs.

July 17, 2021 at 3:04 PM

Tamarack Fire Evac Center moved to Douglas County Senior Center by Lampe Park in Gardnerville

July 17, 2021 at 11:10 AM

Today, firefighters will continue to utilize aviation resources to support handline construction where they can safely do so to minimize the spread of the fire towards areas of unburned fuels and structures.

In addition, structure protection fire engines from the local area with support from wildland fire engines will continue to suppress the fire as it encroaches into the community of Markleeville and the surrounding areas. A local hotshot crew will utilize suppression tactics to take advantage of natural barriers and areas of opportunity to increase the containment throughout the burning period. Additional suppression resources have been ordered and will be arriving throughout the day to support the firefighting efforts. 

July 17, 2021 at 8:16 AM

Fire burned actively throughout the night. Firefighters are on scene and actively engaged in suppression operations. Two helicopters, Very Large Air Tanker, Single Engine Air tankers and Air Attack are on scene. Fire is burning in timber and brush. Fire is active on all flanks and exhibiting high rates of spread. Ground and air resources have been working together to establish an anchor point to begin containment lines around the flank, or sides, of the fire. Currently, air tankers are using retardant to coat the vegetation to try to inhibit the fire’s spread. A Type 2 Incident Management Team has been ordered for this incident and will arrive today 7/17/21

Highway 89, 88 and 4 are closed in the fire area. Evacuations are in place for Markleeville, Grover’s Hot Springs Park and Campground, Shay Creek, Markleeville Village and East Fork Resort. Residents can sign up for evacuation notifications at https://alpinecountyca.gov/204/Sheriff. Evacuees can report to Alpine County School in Paynesville. The public is advised to avoid the area.

July 16, 2021 at 9:32 PM

Mandatory evacuations are in place for the following areas: Grover Hot Springs, Shay Creek, Markleevillage, Markleeville, Carson River Resort, & Poor Boy Road area, Wolf Creek Campground and surrounding areas. Silver Creek Campground is under a voluntary evacuation but conditions may change fast. Turtle Rock Campground and all remote camping is closed. Please avoid these areas to allow emergency personnel to do their jobs.

EVACUATION CENTER is the Early Learning Center at 100 Foothill Road.

Death Ride Cancelled Due to Wildfire in Markleeville

July 16, 2021 at 9:06 PM

The Tamarack fire is estimated to be 500 acres. Firefighters are on scene and actively engaged in suppression operations. Two helicopters, Very Large Air Tanker, Single Engine Air tankers and Air Attack are on scene. Fire is burning in timber and brush. Fire is active on flanks and exhibiting high rates of spread. Ground and air resources have been working together to establish an anchor point to begin containment lines around the flank, or sides, of the fire. Currently, air tankers are using retardant to coat the vegetation to try to inhibit the fire’s spread. A Type 2 Incident Management Team has been ordered for this incident.

Evacuations are in place for Markleeville, Grover’s Hot Springs Park and Campground, Shay Creek, Markleeville Village and  East Fork Resort. Residents can sign up for evacuation notifications at https://alpinecountyca.gov/204/Sheriff. Evacuees can report to Alpine County School in Paynesville. The public is advised to avoid the area. Visit https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7674/ for continued updates.

The fire’s location, hazards to firefighters, conditions on the ground, past fire history, resource availability and weather forecasts are some of the factors taken into account when selecting a management strategy for any wildfire. The safety of our firefighters and the public is always our number one priority.

July 16, 2021 at 7:52 PM

Great Basin Team 3 Type 2-IMT has been ordered for the Tamarack Fire. In-brief is on 7/17.

July 16, 2021 at 7:17 PM

Smoke may be visible from the Carson City, Carson Valley and Markleeville. Firefighters are on scene and actively engaged in suppression operations. 2 helicopters, Very Large Air Tanker, Single Engine Air tankers, Air attack are ordered and/or on scene.

The fire’s location, hazards to firefighters, conditions on the ground, past fire history, resource availability and weather forecasts are some of the factors taken into account when selecting a management strategy for any wildfire. At this time the fire is estimated to be 500 acres in size. Fire is burning actively on all flanks.

Evacuation orders by Alpine County Sheriff for:
Markleeville
Turtle Rock Park
Woodfords Community

Evacuation Warning:
Hope Valley

Evacuation center at Alpine County Health Department, 75 Diamond Valley Rd, Alpine Village