Beckwourth Complex

Beckwourth Complex, Plumas NF, USFS. Three miles northeast of Beckwourth, CA. Timber, brush and closed timber litter. Minimal fire behavior. Area, road and trail closures in effect.

August 7, 2021 at 9:21 AM

Patrol and mop up continues.

July 31, 2021 at 6:46 PM

Minimal likely threat of fire growth.

July 27, 2021 at 8:19 PM

All Evacuation Orders and Warnings have been lifted in Lassen County.

Plumas County: Only property owners may access the areas of Frenchmen Lake, Carmen, Frenchmen Cove, Dooley, Frenchmen Village, and Dixie Valley Road from Beckwourth-Genesee Road to Frenchmen Lake to inspect their properties.

Damaged and destroyed structures:

Single Family Residences 11 Damaged, 106 Destroyed.
Other Minor Structures Outbuilding 12 Damaged, 42 Destroyed.

July 24, 2021 at 10:53 AM

Incident Commander Bryce Thomas is leading the Type 3 Organization which is now managing the Beckwourth Complex. Firefighters continue to mop up inside of fire lines as deep into the fire as needed to assure the fire will not escape the control lines. They also are working on rehabbing constructed fireline and bringing it back to as close to a natural state as is possible. This will include constructing water bars to help to reduce erosion and dragging removed vegetation back over constructed control lines. Perform backhaul is also part of this process. Backhaul is the removal of equipment such as hose, pumps and other supplies that were brought out to the firelines and now needs to be returned for rehab and future use.

July 22, 2021 at 9:18 AM

California Interagency Incident Management Team 5 will host a virtual community meeting to update the public on the status of the Beckwourth Complex as the team prepares to transfer management of the fire to a local Type 3 team. The Dixie Fire another fire on the Plumas National Forest is not part of the Beckwourth Complex. Submit your questions about the Beckwourth Complex in advance by emailing 2021.BeckwourthComplex@firenet.gov or by posting in the event discussion. 

You do not need a Facebook account to watch the livestream of the meeting.  

Movement of the fire is not expected outside its current perimeter. The Beckwourth Complex is now 96% contained at 105,670 acres. Crews are making good progress finding and extinguishing areas of remaining heat that are within 100-300 feet from the containment line. Where the fire is contained, crews are continuing fire-suppression repair work as well as removing excess fire hose and equipment. As containment continues to increase, firefighting resources are being reassigned to other incidents or returning home for rest before mobilizing to other incidents. Smoke from the Dixie Fire continues to spread across large portions of northeastern California and western Nevada.

The Dotta Fire—part of the Beckwourth Complex—is now 100 percent contained. Occasional smoke might be visible from smoldering trees, but they are not close to the fireline and pose no threat to containment lines. Firefighters will patrol the fire perimeter daily

The Sugar Fire within the Beckwourth Complex is remaining within its perimeter of over 60 miles of containment lines. Occasional smoke may be visible as unburned vegetation well within the perimeter smolders. Firefighters continue to monitor and patrol the entire fire perimeter.

July 20, 2021 at 7:03 AM

The fire is not expected to move outside its current perimeter. the fire remains at 105,670 acres and is now 90% contained. Crews are finding and extinguishing pockets of lingering heat that are within 100 to 300 feet—depending on terrain—from the containment line. As the fire is increasingly contained, crews, equipment, and other resources are being reassigned to other incidents or returning to their home units for rest between mobilizations. Widespread smoke from the Dixie Fire continues to affect Susanville. A group of initial-attack firefighters is prepositioned on the west side of the fire, allowing for a rapid response to new fires. Last evening, night-shift firefighters quickly mobilized and contained a new lightning-caused fire west of the Beckwourth Complex. In areas where the fire is contained, crews and equipment have begun fire-suppression repair work.

The Sugar Fire within the Beckwourth Complex is remaining within its perimeter of over 60 miles of containment lines. Occasional smoke may be visible as unburned vegetation well within the perimeter smolders. Firefighters continue to monitor and patrol the entire fire perimeter.

The Beckwourth Complex is comprised of the Dotta Fire and the Sugar Fire. The Dotta Fire was ignited by lightning on June 30 near Dotta Canyon on the Beckwourth Ranger District of the Plumas National Forest. On July 2, the Sugar Fire started by lightning west of Sugarloaf Peak. These two fires are being managed as one incident, which is also called a complex.

July 19, 2021 at 10:04 PM

The Sugar Fire within the Beckwourth Complex has shown little growth and is remaining within its present perimeter.  No growth occurred on the fire in the past two, the fire remains at 105,348 acres and is now 88% contained.  Fire fighters are continuing to secure and patrol containment lines from Highway 395 northeast from Doyle to Bird Hill and south to Meadow View. Crews have been monitoring some smoldering, smoking pockets of fuel within the fire’s perimeter. 

In the south and east sides of the fire, containment lines from Maddalena, east to the Scott Road, north to Constantia and the community of Doyle are still holding.   Crews continue to patrol these locations, and will begin to backhaul equipment. 

Containment lines from the Dixie Mountain ridge system, south to Ramelli Creek and from Maddalena, east to the Scott Road, north to Constantia and the community of Doyle are still holding. Firefighters will continue monitoring these areas. 

While firefighters make the final push towards full containment of the fire complex, they must fulfill another extremely important task.  Firefighters must be on the lookout for equipment in the field that is no longer needed by the crews that fought before them, and recover and return items as activities continue to wind down.  The Beckwourth Complex is no exception. The list of equipment that must be retrieved includes; hose, pump kits; generators; chainsaw kits; collapsible water tanks; and smaller items such as hose fittings and nozzles.  To gather these items, firefighters will GPS the location of equipment and then crews are sent out to backhaul these items.  Equipment must then cleaned, repaired, and organized to be ready for the next incident. 

The Beckwourth Complex is comprised of the Dotta Fire and the Sugar Fire.  The Dotta Fire was ignited by lightning on June 30 near Dotta Canyon on the Beckwourth Ranger District of the Plumas National Forest.  On July 2, the Sugar Fire started by lightning west of Sugarloaf Peak.  These two fires are being managed as one incident, which is also called a complex. 

July 19, 2021 at 9:45 AM

Monsoon moisture has moved in from the south. Storms may produce lightning and erratic winds. Fire crews on the northeast side are finding and extinguishing areas of residual heat. Additional resources will be brought in for fire suppression repair.

The Sugar Fire within the Beckwourth Complex is remaining within its present parameter of over 60 miles of containment lines. Firefighters continue to secure and patrol the fire area from Highway 395, northwest from Doyle to Bird Hill and south to Meadow View. Crews are monitoring smoldering, smoking pockets of vegetation within the fire’s perimeter.

Containment lines from the Dixie Mountain ridge system, north to Ramelli Creek and from Maddalena, east to the Scott Road, north to Constantia and the community of Doyle are still holding. Firefighters will continue monitoring these areas.

July 18, 2021 at 6:39 PM

Minimal fire behavior reported today. Evacuation Orders and Warnings remain in effect. Threat to power and communication infrastructure and rail lines. Road, area and trail closures in effect. Red Flag Warning in effect Monday for lightning and gusty outflow winds.

July 18, 2021 at 10:28 AM

A virtual community meeting will be held tonight at 7 p.m., via Facebook Live, on the Plumas National Forest’s Facebook page. You can submit your questions beforehand to the incident email address 2021.beckwourthcomplex@firenet.gov or on the Facebook meeting event page.

Current Situation: At 6 a.m. today, California Interagency Incident Management Team 5, under the leadership of Incident Commander Rick Young, assumed command of the Beckwourth Complex.

The Sugar Fire within the Beckwourth Complex is remaining within its present parameter of over 60 miles of containment lines. Firefighters continue to secure and patrol the fire area from Highway 395, northeast from Doyle to Bird Hill and south to Meadow View. Crews are monitoring smoldering, smoking pockets of vegetation within the fire’s perimeter. A red-flag warning is in effect from midnight tonight through 8 p.m. on Monday.

Containment lines from the Dixie Mountain ridge system, south to Ramelli Creek and from Maddalena, east to the Scott Road, north to Constantia and the community of Doyle are still holding. Firefighters will continue monitoring these areas.

Smoke conditions today are expected to be Good to Unhealthy around the forecast area. Doyle, Chilcoot, and Herlong may experience degraded air quality until the inversion lifts late morning. Due to the Dixie Fire, Paradise will see degraded conditions in the morning, Chester in the afternoon and Susanville in the evening into the morning. Due to the Tamarack Fire, Reno and Spanish Springs may see overall Moderate conditions and Carson City may see overall Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (USG). Smoke impacts will be heavily dependent on fire activity.

July 17, 2021 at 8:28 PM

Active fire behavior flanking, isolated torching and single tree torching observed. Evacuation Orders and Warnings remain in effect. US Highway 395 remains threatened. Threat to power and communication infrastructure, Rail lines, Historical and cultural sites. Road, area and trail closures in effect. Red Flag Warning in effect from 7/18-7/19 for lightning and gusty outflow winds.

44 residences and 20 minor structures confirmed destroyed.

July 17, 2021 at 8:23 AM

There was an approximate 4,622 acre growth yesterday, a slight decrease from the previous operational period. Expect a similar profile today. Fire behavior remains active in the North and Northwestern areas of the fire. Fire behavior includes wind driven runs, group torching and spotting. The weather has begun to moderate. WE should see this pattern over the next few operational periods. Fuel moistures remain critically low both live and dead. Energy Release Component is just below the 97th percentile and climbing.

The northern and western flanks, from Bird Hills to Doyle Grade area, over to Meadow View and down the Dixie Mountain Ridge system to Dixie Lookout, continue to be the most active areas of the fire. During the past few operational periods, crews have established perimeter lines around these areas. Increased winds during the afternoon have been threatening containment lines; however, crews continue to patrol these lines eliminating any residual heat. Contingency aka back-up lines, have also been created near Ross Canyon from Dixie Valley Road to Ferris Flat Road. This area will only be utilized if the fire cannot be held by the containment lines closer to the fire’s present perimeter.

In the southern area of the fire, containment lines from Maddalena, east to Scott Road, north to Constantia and the community of Doyle are holding. The fire has had little-to-no additional progression. Crews continue patrolling and monitoring around these locations, addressing any areas of concern.

July 16, 2021 at 7:08 PM

Active fire behavior with wind driven runs, group torching and long-range spotting. Evacuation Orders and Warnings Remain in effect. Area, road and trail closures in effect. Threat remains to US Highway 395, rail lines, power and communication infrastructure, historical and cultural sites. Fire Weather Watch in effect form 7/18-7/19 for lightning and gusty outflow winds. The Beckwourth Complex is comprised of the Dotta and Sugar Fires. Transfer of command to California Type 1 Team 5 (Young) scheduled on 7/18. California Type 1, Team 4 (Opliger) is in command.

July 16, 2021 at 9:02 AM

Fire crews were able to contain an area of the Sugar fire within the Beckwourth Complex, which escaped containment lines adjacent to Highway 395, west of Doyle, yesterday. The fire encroached on the highway; however, firefighters were able to use air and ground suppression to engage the fire and prevent it from spreading.

The highway was closed temporarily but is now reopened. Crews utilized pre-constructed dozer lines, as well as engines to prevent the fire from threatening the highway, Herlong Junction and surrounding communities.

Firefighters then continued constructing dozer lines through Doyle Grade and Meadow View Road, along with defensive burning operations near Spade Way, as weather conditions permitted. Today, fire crews are building contingency lines, to act as secondary defenses, near Ross Canyon from Dixie Valley Road to Ferris Flat Road. This area will only be utilized if the fire cannot be held by containment lines closer the fire’s present perimeter.

Mandatory evacuation orders have been issued for communities near areas where the fire is more active. Residents are urged to visit the Lassen County and Plumas County Sheriff Department’s Facebook or web pages for more information.

In the southern area of the fire, containment lines from Maddalena, east to the Scott Road, north to Constantia and the community of Doyle are still holding.

The fire has had little-to-no additional progression and crews will continue patrols around these locations.

California Interagency Incident Management Team 4 (CIIMT4) will reach the end of their 14-day operational assignment tomorrow. A transfer of command to California Interagency Incident Management Team 5 (CIIMT 5) led by Incident Commander Rick Young will occur at 6 a.m. Sunday, July 18. CIIMT 5 will be working closely with their counterparts on CIIMT 4 prior to the transfer of command.

July 16, 2021 at 8:11 AM

Moderate fire behavior reported overnight. Evacuation Orders and Warnings Remain in effect. US Highway 395 is open and SR 284 are closed. Area, road and trail closures in effect. Threat remains to rail lines, power and communication infrastructure, historical and cultural sites. The Beckwourth Complex is comprised of the Dotta and Sugar Fires. California Type 1 Team 5 (Young) scheduled to in-brief today. California Type 1, Team 4 (Opliger) is in command.

July 15, 2021 at 6:55 PM

Active fire behavior reported with wind driven runs and long-range spotting. Evacuation Orders and Warnings Remain in effect. US Highway 395 and SR 284 are closed. Area, road and trail closures in effect. Threat remains to rail lines, power and communication infrastructure, historical and cultural sites. The Beckwourth Complex is comprised of the Dotta and Sugar Fires. California Type 1 Team 5 (Young) scheduled to inbrief 7-16. California Type 1, Team 4 (Opliger) is in command.

July 15, 2021 at 7:31 AM

Dotta 594 acres and 99% contained
Sugar 99,937 acres and 68% contained

Firefighters continue focusing their efforts to contain increased fire behavior in the northern area of the Sugar Fire, on the Beckwourth Complex. Around 3 p.m. Wednesday, spot fires began to spread across the west side of Frenchman Boulevard. Gusting, 50 mile-per-hour winds and extreme fire behavior, such as fire whirls, caused embers to be carried even further ahead of the fire, to the escarpment. Additional crews were diverted from less active areas of the fire to assist in containment efforts, while other firefighters are still working in these areas. Dozer lines, which had previously been constructed in this area, are also being utilized to slow the fire’s progression. Firefighters were able to reengage and catch the fire between Evans Drive and Plinco Mine Road. Crews will continue working to connect this area with existing dozer lines near Spade Way.

Due to this increased behavior, mandatory evacuation orders have been issued for communities in these areas. Residents are urged to visit the Lassen County and Plumas County Sheriff Department’s Facebook pages for more information.

In the southern area of the fire, containment lines from Maddalena, east to the Scott Road, north to Constantia and the community of Doyle are still holding. The fire has had little-to-no additional progression and crews will continue patrols around these locations.

Windy conditions are expected to continue throughout the day, with gusts up to 30 miles-per-hour, however, the Sugar fire has been creating its own independent weather patterns as the day progresses.

July 14, 2021 at 7:52 PM

A new Mandatory Evacuation Order has been issued for Doyle on Old Hwy 395 from Laura Drive west on Old Hwy 395 to Cowboy Joe Road and everything in between. The Mandatory Evacuation Order remains in place for the dirt portion of Doyle Grade where the pavement ends approximately 3.4 miles south of US 395. There will be a road block at that point and a heavy law enforcement presence will remain in the area.

Evacuation Warnings remain in effect for the following areas:

• Doyle east and west of US 395 including the town of Herlong south to the Lassen/Sierra County line.
• West of US 395 from the north end of Constantia Rd. south to the Lassen/Sierra County line and from the intersection of A26 north to Milford Grade.

Safety Message: People need to leave immediately. Drive with your headlights on and yield to emergency personnel. If you need assistance evacuating, call the non-emergency dispatch center at (530)257-6121. For shelter information, call the emergency shelter line at (530)588-8627. We are asking the citizens of Milford, Doyle, and Herlong to remain vigilant and watch for changing fire conditions. Spot fires along the ridgeline coupled with high winds can cause fire activity to escalate quickly, especially in those areas. It is imperative that you remain alert and ready to evacuate if that occurs.

July 14, 2021 at 6:37 PM

Fire remained active on the north side. Evacuation Orders and Warnings Remain in effect. Road and trail closures in effect. Threat remains to rail lines, power and communication infrastructure, historical and cultural sites. The Beckwourth Complex is comprised of the Dotta and Sugar Fires. California Type 1 Team 5 (Young) on order to replace Team 4. California Type 1, Team 4 (Opliger) is in command.

July 14, 2021 at 7:43 AM

Fire crews continue making progress to contain the Sugar Fire within the Beckworth Complex.

Containment operations are the most challenging between Diamond Face and Dixie Lookout, where fire activity and steep terrain make it difficult for crews to engage the fire directly. Fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters are being used to help control the fire until firefighters can safely enter the area. As a precaution, fire crews are working to locate alternative areas to build containment lines in the Spade Road and Ramelli Creek area, where two spot fires were located.

In the Doyle Grade area, firefighters were able to add hose lines to strengthen the combination of handlines, dozer lines and railroad lines which are containing the fire.

From Scott Road, heading northeast to Doyle, as well as from Dixie Look out, south to Maddelena, the fire has had no additional growth. Crews are conducting patrols to continue to search for and eliminate any residual patches of heat along the containment lines.

Tuesday was the last day of the excessive heat warning, but temperatures will remain several degrees above what is normally expected at this time of year. Southwest winds will be a steady 5-10 miles-per-hour, increasing to 10-20 mph, with gusts up to 28 mph in the afternoon.

July 13, 2021 at 6:54 PM

92,988 acres grass and brush, 66% contained. Fire activity continues north and east

July 13, 2021 at 12:08 PM

Plumas County Sheriff: BECKWOURTH COMPLEX EVACUATION AND ROAD CLOSURE INFORMATION

MANDATORY EVACUATION ORDERS have been issued for the following areas:

• Frenchman Lake
o All surrounding areas of Frenchman Lake, Carmen, Frenchman Cove, Dooley, Frenchman Village, Frenchman Cove.
• Doyle Grade and Sugarloaf Road
• Dixie Valley
o Dixie Valley Rd from Beckwourth-Genesee Road to Frenchman Lake.

EVACUATION WARNINGS ARE IN EFFECT for the following areas:

• Hwy 70 between Beckwourth-Genesee Road to the Plumas/Lassen County Line
o All addresses north of Hwy 70 between the Beckwourth-Genesee Road and the County Line.
o All addresses along the south side of Hwy 70 Hwy 70 between the Beckwourth-Genesee Road
and the County Line.
• Chilcoot and Vinton
o All residences.

ROAD CLOSURES AND INFORMATION
• CLOSED Frenchman Lake Road (SR264).
• For current highway information visit roads.dot.ca.gov

SHELTER INFORMATION
Due to no attendance the shelter has been demobilized. Residents in need of assistance should call 530-283-6300

If you need assistance with animals contact Plumas County Animal Services at 283-3673 or 283-6300.
Large animals/livestock can also be accommodated.

July 13, 2021 at 8:22 AM

Dotta Fire: 594 acres and 99% contained. (Reduction in acreage due to more accurate mapping)
Sugar Fire: 92,394 acres and 46% contained.

Fire crews continue fighting the Sugar Fire both on land and by air. Fire crews were particularly active in the Doyle Grade Road and Frenchman Boulevard area at the northern flank of the fire. Dozers and hand crews are working to construct contingency line at Meadowview Loop, ahead of the flame front to halt the fire’s progression into this area.

There is still a lot of fire activity near Ramelli Creek. Due to steep terrain, crews were unable to conduct direct fire suppression and control operations. Fixed wing and helicopter air operations are using a combination of water and fire retardant in these areas. Crews are constructing control line in the Sugarloaf area. Spot fires were located between the dozer line at Diamond Face and Dixie Lookout. Crews were able to contain them quickly.

In the southern fire area, a combination of handline and dozer has been constructed from the Maddelena area to the Scott Road, through Constantia, to the community of Doyle. The area is being patrolled in 24-hour shifts and crews are conducting mop-up operations to search for and eliminate any residual heat. Containment line has been constructed to the Doyle Grade Road.

Extreme heat and dry conditions continue to cause potentially dangerous fire behavior. West/Southwest winds will continue to gust around 25 miles-per-hour and relative humidity will remain between 7-15 percent.

July 13, 2021 at 7:25 AM

Expect a moderate risk burn environment due to higher temps, low RH and highly receptive fuels. Expect slightly lower ridge top winds (SW 19 mph, G28). Once the inversion lifts at approximately 10 a.m. fire activity will increase.

July 12, 2021 at 9:11 PM

EVACUATIONS for the Rancho Haven Community off Red Rock Rd, and communities along Fish Springs Rd. have been lifted.

• EVACUATION WARNINGS/ADVISORIES:
• South Milford Grade Area: West of HWY 395 between Milford and Hurlong

Junction

• East Doyle to Hurlong Junction Area
• Sierra Army Depot Area
• Turtle Mountain Road Area
• East Doyle and Turtle Mountain Areas
• Reno Junction and Scotts Area
• SW Lassen County Area
• MANDATORY EVACUATIONS:
• East Doyal, South of Hurlong Junction, West of Hwy 395, South of Doyal, West to Lassen County border.
• Evacuations in Plumas County are still in effect.

ROAD CLOSURES

• SR-284 is closed
• Hwy. 395 has reopened
• State Route 70 has reopened

July 12, 2021 at 7:18 PM

Active fire behavior to the north and east. Evacuation Orders and Warnings Remain in effect. Highway 395 is open to controlled traffic.

July 12, 2021 at 8:28 AM

Dotta Fire: 670 acres and 99% contained.

Sugar Fire: 89,078 acres and 8% contained.

Firefighters were successful in gaining 23% containment along the south side of the fire, where crews will continue with mop up today.

On the west side of the fire, firefighters are making great progress on constructing direct hand line and completing hose lays. Dozers continue constructing direct line south will eventually tie in with the crews below.

The north side of the fire continues to be the most active area. Despite active spotting with one that reached 25 acres, firefighters were able to contain them. In the Doyle Grade area, the fire remained in its current footprint and did not progress. Resources continue to construct and secure line near structures.

On the east side of the fire along highway 395, there is still potential for spot fires. Drivers should use caution in the area and be prepared for possible highway closures.

Working northeast of Scott Road, crews are using the concrete rail bed as a control line, and are making good progress securing the edge. Crews are now in patrol and mop up about midway up Scott Road.

A heat signature was detected on the Dotta fire last night, so a crew is being inserted to work on it today.

Extreme fire behavior is expected again today with dry, unstable winds, gusting up to 30 miles per hour out of the southwest.

Relative humidity will be down to 7-14%, with poor to moderate overnight recoveries keeping fuels receptive for burning at night.

A damage assessment team has arrived to validate and assess reports of structures damaged or destroyed.

July 11, 2021 at 8:32 PM

Mandatory evacuations in effect due to threatened structures, 3,064 people are evacuated.

Mandatory:
-East and West of 395 from County Road A26 (Herlong Junction) south to the Lassen/Sierra County line.

-Doyle and the Doyle Loop east of 395.

-Communities along the north side of Hwy 70 from Beckwourth-Genesee road.
-Communities located within the north side of highway 70 from Beckwourth-Genesee road to Highway 395.

-Rancho Haven Community along Red Rock road.

-Scattered communities along Fish Springs road to Flannigan road.
Warnings/Advisory:
-Town of Milford from the grade south and everything in between.

Closures

-Roads adjacent Doyle and the Doyle Loop.
-Scott road south to Sierra County line.

July 11, 2021 at 6:52 PM

Active fire behavior reported with torching and long range spotting. Evacuation Orders and Warnings Remain in effect. Highway 395 is open to controlled traffic. Rail lines have been shut down with road and trail closures in effect. Threat to recreation, power and communication infrastructure.

July 11, 2021 at 9:09 AM

Despite a 22,600 acre growth on the Sugar Fire yesterday, firefighters were successful in holding the fire on the south and southwestern flanks, while catching all slopovers along highway 395, which forced the closure of the highway at 4:30 p.m. yesterday.

Firefighters also worked hard to reach 99% containment on the Dotta Fire.

Indirect dozer line was constructed in several areas for structure protection, including behind Dixie Valley to Dixie Lookout.

Firefighters also progressed in constructing dozer lines past the town of Doyle, behind structures along Old Highway 395 and Bernice Lane.

In the Doyle Grade area, Hotshot crews worked hard to contain slopovers on the northern side of the fire.

Working northeast of Scott Road, crews will use the concrete rail bed to initiate strategic firing operations in order to secure the eastern edge of the fire.

Crews were successful in firing operations from dozer lines constructed on the south flank of the fire, eliminating fuels that posed threat to nearby communities such as Chilcoot. They were also able to hold and secure Maddalena and Dotta Guidici Road.

Extreme fire behavior is expected again today with increasingly gusty winds up to 25 miles per hour and relative humidity down to 9%.

Air operations are robust on this incident, including fixed and rotor wing. An unmanned aerial system (UAS) drone is arriving today to assist in scouting and strategical firing operations. A dedicated night-flying helicopter is also available for any emergency firefighter extraction.

A damage assessment team has been ordered to validate reports of structures damaged or destroyed.

July 11, 2021 at 7:41 AM

Fire behavior moderated overnight after 10pm. Evacuation Orders and Warnings Remain in effect. Highway 395 is closed in the fire area. Rail lines have been shut down. Threat to power and communication infrastructure. One RC-26 aircraft with Distributed Real-Time Infrared (DRTI) capability and support personnel from the 141st Air Refueling Wing (Washington Air National Guard) has been deployed to Reno, NV in support of wildland fire operations.

July 10, 2021 at 9:04 PM

3,061 people evacuated.

July 10, 2021 at 7:29 PM

Per Washoe Sheriff:
Hug High School is reinstated as the evacuation site for people and small animals. Large animals can evacuate to the Reno Sparks Livestock Events Center. Evacuate to the south on Red Rock Rd.

July 10, 2021 at 6:54 PM

Extreme fire behavior with uphill runs and wind driven runs, spotting observed. Evacuation Orders and Warnings Remain in effect. Road, area and trail closures remain in effect. Rail lines have been shut down. Threat to power and communication infrastructure, highway 395, recreation, historical and cultural sites.

July 10, 2021 at 6:46 PM

Per Truckee Meadows Fire&Rescue: The Sugar Fire has jumped US 395. Evacuation orders reinstated for Rancho Haven and Flanigan Flats communities. Take immediate steps to protect large animals and livestock. Details forthcoming.

July 10, 2021 at 4:48 PM

Lassen County Sheriff’s update:

MILFORD AREA IS ALSO UNDER EVACUATION WARNING

BECKWOURTH COMPLEX FIRE

EXPANDED MANDATORY EVACUATION ORDER

A Mandatory Evacuation Order has been expanded to include:
• Everything west of US 395 from the intersection of County Road A26 and US 395 south to the Lassen/Sierra County Line.

Evacuation Warnings have been extended for residents east of US 395 from County Road A25 including the town of Herlong, south to the Sierra/Lassen County line.

ROAD CLOSURE: US 395 is closed

MAP LINK TO EVACUATED AREAS (choose the “skip” option when prompted to answer location questions and scroll in and out to zoom for road names): https://community.zonehaven.com/…

SAFETY MESSAGE: People need to leave immediately. Please use caution and be courteous to your neighbors. Drive with your headlights on and yield to emergency personnel. Residents needing assistance evacuating are asked to call the non-emergency dispatch center at (530)257-6121. Deputies will be going door to door to make notification. For information on what to bring with you in the event of an evacuation, go to www.readyforwildfire.org

PRESS RELEASE 7/10/2021 3PM EXPANDED MANDATORY EVACUATIONS

Mandatory Evacuation Orders have been issued for the following areas in Lassen County:
• Scott Road from Hwy 70 north to the end.
• North and south sides of Doyle Grade from the Lassen/Plumas County line east to the intersection of US 395 but not including Laura Drive.• Doyle Grade where it intersects with US 395 south to Red Rock Road on the west side of US 395 only.Evacuation Warnings have been issued for the following areas:• Residents both east and west of US 395 from County Road A26 south to Doyle Grade and from Red Rock Road south to the Sierra/Lassen County line.• Residents east of US 395 from where it intersects with Doyle Grade south to Red Rock road.MAP LINK TO EVACUATED AREAS (choose the “skip” option when prompted to answer location questions and scroll in and out to zoom for road names): https://community.zonehaven.com/…SAFETY MESSAGE: People need to leave immediately. Please use caution and be courteous to your neighbors. Drive with your headlights on and yield to emergency personnel. Residents needing assistance evacuating are asked to call the non-emergency dispatch center at (530)257-6121. Deputies will be going door to door to make notification. For information on what to bring with you in the event of an evacuation, go to www.readyforwildfire.org

July 10, 2021 at 12:32 PM

Significant resources are staged in the area for structure protection, which is currently under a mandatory evacuation order among several other communities. This extreme fire behavior is due to several factors coming alignment with critically dry and receptive fuels, hot temperatures, topography arrangement and southwest winds funneling through them.

After the inversion lifted yesterday afternoon, the fire developed a highly visible, large pyrocumulonimbus cloud, with reports of lightning on the east side of the fire.

Indirect bulldozer line was constructed in several areas for structure protection, focusing on the south/southeastern flank of the fire behind community of Chilcoot, and the northeastern flank below residences on Constantia Road. Additional areas on the northwestern flank of the fire were scouted for constructing indirect lines down toward Dixie Valley to box the main body of the fire in, taking into consideration how frequent the spotting behavior is.

During night operations, firefighters were successful in conducting strategic firing operations from bulldozer lines constructed on the south flank of the fire to guide fire back up into the main body of it.

High potential for extremely active fire behavior with group torching, long-range spotting and pyrocumulous clouds development with powerful downdrafts which also increases intensity of fire behavior.

Air operations are robust on this incident, including fixed and rotor wing. A night-flying helicopter is also available dedicated for any potential emergency firefighter extraction.

A damage assessment team has been ordered to validate reports of structures damaged/lost.

Evacuation centers:

• Lassen County Fairgrounds: 195 Russel Ave. Susanville, CA.
• Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center: 1350 N Wells Ave, Reno, NV.

July 10, 2021 at 8:33 AM

Extreme, wind driven runs, group torching, long-range spotting. Intense fire growth (approximately 14,000 acres) during the day shift operational period. SW wind alignment and receptive fuels were the contributing factors of fire spread and intensity.

Fire behavior include wind driven runs, group torching and long-range spotting. The weather will continue to trend towards hotter and drier with a forecasted heat wave this weekend. Fuel moistures remain critically low both both live and dead. Expecting longer burn periods, approximately 12-15 hours. The fire is experiencing significant rates of spread with intense fire growth. Heavy down drafts and erratic winds are expected.

Mandatory Evacuation Orders have issued for the following areas:·

• Lassen County residents on the north and south sides of Doyle Grade from the Lassen/Plumas County line east to the intersection of US 395 but not including Laura Drive.·
• Lassen County residents from the Doyle Grade where it intersects with US 395 south to Red Rock Road on the west side of US 395 only.

Evacuation Warnings have been issued for the following areas:

• Residents both east and west of US 395 from County Road A26 south to Doyle Grade and from Red Rock Road south to the Sierra/Lassen County line.·
• Residents east of US 395 from where it intersects with Doyle Grade south to Red Rock road.

July 9, 2021 at 10:08 PM

2,800 people have been evacuated.

Evacuations and warnings/advisories continue in the path of the fire towards Lassen County and the City of Doyle. Washoe County issued a mandatory evacuation for Rancho Haven off Red Rocks Road.

High Voltage Power lines and major fiber optic lines are being threatened within Lassen County California as well as within the neighboring state of Nevada. Fire is currently moving towards State Highway 395. The Union Pacific rail lines are being impacted and two of the rail lines have been shut down. Continued threats of fire to move east towards the State of Nevada in Washoe County.

July 9, 2021 at 7:10 PM

Extreme fire behavior with wind driven runs, group torching, and long-range spotting. Evacuation Orders and Warnings Remain in effect. Road, area and trail closures remain in effect including Hwy 395. Rail lines have been shut down. Threat to power and communication infrastructure, recreation, historical and cultural sites.

July 9, 2021 at 1:31 PM

The Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center is opened to accommodate the animals. Hug High School (2880 Sutro St.) will be the evacuation center for people and small animals if needed. US 395 is anticipated to be closed from HWY 70 to Doyle, CA.⚠️It is imperative that residents travel southbound on Red Rock and do not use the northern Red Rock exit on US 395.

July 9, 2021 at 8:51 AM

Sugar Fire 23,855 acres and 11% contained
Dotta Fire 670 acres and 76% contained

The Sugar Fire within the Beckwourth Complex experienced significant fire growth yesterday. Southwest wind alignment and receptive fuels were the contributing factors of fire spread and intensity. The fire remained active all night, progressing east towards Adam’s Peak where it crossed the escarpment west of Doyle. The fire is burning around the lake with numerous spot fires on the eastern side of the lake. Crews conducted strategic firing operations for structure protection north of Frenchman Lake. Fire is pushing to Dixie Lookout to the north. Firefighters worked to gain containment on the southwest and northwest edge of the fire near Sugar Loaf. Today firefighters will assess and reevaluate strategies for containment focusing on the escarpment area west of 395 and structure protection.

A new branch was established today along the Hwy 395 corridor near Constantia Road including BLM, CAL FIRE and local resources. Our state, local and federal partners are critical as we implement our suppression efforts.

The Dotta Fire remains in its current footprint as crews continue to mop up.

A virtual community meeting was held last night at 7 p.m. and is posted on the Plumas National Forest Facebook page for viewing.

Evacuations: Mandatory and warning evacuations are in effect for the Plumas and Lassen Counties, and are changing rapidly due to the dynamics of this fire. For the most current information please refer to their Facebook pages:

https://www.facebook.com/USFSPlumas
https://www.facebook.com/LassenSheriff

July 8, 2021 at 8:13 PM

Active fire behavior with spotting, wind driven runs and uphill runs observed. Evacuation Orders and Warnings Remain in effect. Road, area and trail closures remain in effect. Threat to structures, power infrastructure, historical and cultural sites. There is a Red Flag Warning issued near the fire area today for gusty winds and low RH.

July 8, 2021 at 7:47 PM

A Mandatory Evacuation Order has been issued by Plumas County Sheriff’s Office for all the residences in Dixie Valley due to the Beckwourth Complex. Please leave the area immediately. If you remain emergency personnel may not be able to assist you. Personnel are responding to issue door to door orders.

July 8, 2021 at 8:20 AM

Sugar Fire: 11,799 acres and 20% contained.
Dotta Fire: 670 acres and 48% contained.

Fire behavior increased significantly yesterday due to hot, dry, and windy conditions. A steady stream of helicopters, very large air tankers (VLATS), large air tankers (LATS), and fixed wings aircraft were engaged in the fire fight from above, with additional resources of firefighters, engine strike teams and dozers working below throughout the day. However, wind alignment and receptive fuels led to the fire’s growth. The fire grew northeast to Carmen Road and the right flank of the fire spread to Trusi Canyon. Last night, crews worked to protect structures, building direct and indirect line, conducting tactical firing operations and working to keep the fire from further spread.

The Dotta Fire in the Beckwourth Complex remains in its current footprint and crews continue to be diligent in getting rid of the smokes and gaining more depth in the mop up.

Today, similar conditions are expected as yesterday. As the inversion layer lifts and drying SW winds increase, fire behavior will increase late morning and afternoon. Structure protection and improving the east side is a priority with work being conducted along Frenchman Road. More resources are arriving to support the fire efforts.

There will be a live virtual Community Meeting tonight at 7 p.m. posted on the Plumas National Forest Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/USFSPlumas/

Evacuations: The status of evacuations have been changing rapidly due to the dynamics of this fire. Mandatory evacuation orders have been issued around Dooley, Big Cove, Frenchman Cove, Frenchman Village and Frenchman Lake including all campgrounds and residences around the lake and Maddalena. An Evacuation advisory is issued for Dixie Valley. The Plumas County Sheriff updates evacuation notices on their Facebook page. Please, if you are issued a mandatory evacuation, it’s imperative that you leave, follow their instructions, otherwise firefighters cannot do their job.

An evacuation center has been set up at Portola Baptist Church at 171 Gulling Street in Portola. In addition, an Evacuation Advisory is back in effect both Dixie Valley and Frenchman Cove areas.

Weather: It will be sunny today with temperatures trending hotter and drier. Little change in relative humidity is expected with poor to moderate recovery to start the day followed by very low afternoon humidity. Winds will be light and terrain influenced through the morning, increasing with gusts up to 30 mph in the afternoon.

Air Quality: Smoke, including smoke from neighboring fires, will continue to become more prominent each day due to southerly winds. Refer to https://www.airnow.gov for more information on smoke conditions in your area.

Closures: There are no current highway closures, the Plumas National Forest will be issuing a Forest Closure within the Beckwourth Fire Area very soon.

Fire Restrictions: Current fire restrictions remain in effect for the Plumas National Forest. For more information visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/plumas/home/?cid=stelprdb5374320

July 8, 2021 at 8:05 AM

Mandatory Evacuation Orders have been issued for the Frenchman Cove, Maddalena and Cottonwood Springs. An Evacuation Warning has been issued for Dixie Valley. Road closures are in effect. Threat to structures, power infrastructure, historical and cultural sites. There is a Red Flag Warning issued near the fire area today for gusty winds and low RH. The Beckwourth Complex is comprised of the Dotta and Sugar Fires. California Type 1, Team 4 (Opliger) is in command.

July 7, 2021 at 9:36 PM

According to the evening briefing, the fire almost doubled in size today. The Sugar Fire is moving to the northeast. No structures have been damaged or destroyed at this time.

The fire continues to actively burn tonight.

July 7, 2021 at 4:30 PM

Gusty winds continue to result in rapid fire spread to the north and long range spotting.

An advisory Evacuation Order has been issued for Frenchman Lake including all campgrounds and residences around the lake.

Sheriff Office personnel have been in the area and are giving campers notifications. If you have special needs you should evacuate now. If you have large animals make arrangements to move them immediately.

July 7, 2021 at 3:16 PM

A Mandatory Evacuation notice for residents of Frenchman Lake Cove has been issued. You should leave the area immediately. If you remain emergency personnel may not be able to help you.

An evacuation center is set up at Portola Station 171 Gulling Street in Portola. Dixie Valley Rd residents are still under an advisory and we will provide updates if that should change.

July 7, 2021 at 8:39 AM

Late yesterday afternoon, the Sugar Fire, that is part of the Beckwourth Complex, crossed outside of its current containment line. The fire was pushed across the containment line as a result of 20-35 mph gusty, southwest winds. The fire grew approximately 1,875 acres overnight and is burning in a northeast direction towards Reconnaissance Peak.

Air tankers, flying out of McClellan Air Tanker Base dropped multiple loads of retardant to slow the fire’s spread, along with helicopters dropping water, giving firefighters on the ground an opportunity to safely attack the spreading fire. Firefighters that worked yesterday’s day shift staffed the Sugar fire last night. Those resources included hand crews, dozers, engines and water tenders. A structure protection group comprised of local fire departments and Cal Fire engines provided structure protection to residences around the Maddalena area all evening. No structures have been damaged or impacted.

Additional resources of firefighters, helicopters, engine strike teams, and dozers have been ordered and will be arriving throughout the day to respond aggressively, hoping to take advantage of predicted minimal wind and utilization of aircraft to support ground resources. Expect to see a steady stream of air tankers and helicopters flying retardant and water tomorrow. Some crews and other equipment from the Dotta Fire will be moved to support the Sugar Fire. Fuels within the interior of the Dotta Fire will continue smoldering and burning themselves out.

Evacuations: A Mandatory Evacuation has been ordered by the Plumas County Sherriff’s Office due to a flare up within the Beckwourth Complex. Residents from Beckwourth Genesee Road to Harrison Ranch Road need to leave the area. An evacuation center has been set up at Portola Baptist Church at 171 Gulling Street in Portola. In addition, an Evacuation Advisory is back in effect both Dixie Valley and Frenchman Cove areas.

Weather: Sunny skies will prevail with temperatures remaining a few degrees above normal. Little change in relative humidity is expected with poor to moderate recovery to start the day followed by very low afternoon humidity. Winds will be light and terrain influenced through the morning, increasing and becoming gusty through the afternoon. Air Quality: Smoke, including smoke from neighboring fires, will continue to become more prominent each day due to southerly winds. Refer to https://www.airnow.gov for more information on smoke conditions in your area.

Closures: There are no current highway or Plumas National Forest closures in effect. Fire Restrictions: Current fire restrictions remain in effect for the Plumas National Forest. For more information visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/plumas/home/?cid=stelprdb5374320

Preventing Wildfires: We are asking everyone to remain vigilant this wildfire season. Please know and follow current fire restrictions. Report any suspected violations to local authorities. If you see something, say something. A single phone call to 9-1-1 can be the difference in preventing a catastrophic wildfire.

July 7, 2021 at 7:00 AM

According to the latest perimeter map, the Sugar Fire grew to 3,088 acres overnight and continues to push in a northeasterly direction.

• 

• 

July 6, 2021 at 9:00 PM

Per Plumas County Sheriff: Evacuation Advisory back in Effect for Dixie Valley and Frenchman Lake Cove. Please make preparations to evacuate. If you have special needs you may want to evacuate now. If you have large animals you should make arrangements to move them immediately.

July 6, 2021 at 8:08 PM

The spot is estimated at 250 acres. Per Plumas County Sheriff: Evacuation Advisory back in Effect for Dixie Valley and Frenchman Lake Cove. Please make preparations to evacuate. If you have special needs you may want to evacuate now. If you have large animals you should make arrangements to move them immediately.

July 6, 2021 at 7:05 PM

Afternoon winds have resulted in a spot fire northeast of the Sugar Fire. Per Plumas County Sheriff: Mandatory evacuations have been ordered due to a flare up within the Beckwourth Complex!

Residents from Beckwourth Genesee Road to Harrison Ranch Road need to leave the area. An evacuation center is being set up at Portola Baptist Church 171 Gulling Street.

July 6, 2021 at 4:46 PM

Activity has increased on the Sugar Fire.

This afternoon July 6, 2021, the Plumas County Sheriff’s Office announced that as crews continue to make progress on the Beckwourth Complex the Sheriff’s Office is now able to lift ALL Advisory Evacuation orders in the previous effected areas. As of July 6, 2021, this includes Dixie Valley Road (from Beckwourth-Genesee Road to the west side of Frenchman Lake). As of July 5, 2021 the Maddalena advisory evacuation was lifted for the Sugar Fire located within the Beckwourth Complex.

July 6, 2021 at 7:07 AM

The Dotta Fire is 670 acres and 40% contained, the Sugar Fire is 490 acres and 70% contained.

As a result of the progress and hard work made by firefighters yesterday, the Plumas County Sheriff’s Office announced that the Maddalena advisory evacuation notice was lifted for the Sugar Fire located within the Beckwourth Complex.

As firefighters gain more containment on the two fires, demobilization of crews, overhead, equipment and aircraft are occurring to support other fire incidents in the west. There has been no additional growth in the two fires over the last three days and containment is improving.

Today, firefighters will continue mopping up, aided by helicopter water drops as they improve perimeter depth and strengthen fire lines. Fuels primarily within the interior of the Dotta Fire will continue smoldering and burning themselves out, resulting in more smoke over the coming days. However, an Evacuation Advisory remains in effect for Dixie Valley.

Weather: A heating trend will persist over the coming week with warmer temperatures, lower humidity and southwest winds.

July 5, 2021 at 8:41 PM

Minimal fire behavior reported. Complex comprised of both the Dotta and Sugar Fires. Evacuation Warning in place for Dixie Valley.

July 5, 2021 at 8:40 AM

Firefighters continue to make good progress on the Dotta and Sugar fires within the Beckwourth Complex that started this past week on the Beckwourth Ranger District. Direct and indirect hand lines have been completed around both fires and are holding. There has been no additional growth in the two fires over the last two days. Yesterday firefighters were aided by helicopter water drops that worked the edge of the fire aiding in mop up and creating deeper depth along the fire perimeter. Fuels within the interior of the fire will continue smoldering and burning themselves, out resulting in more smoke from the fires.

July 4, 2021 at 7:16 PM

Moderate fire behavior reported. Complex comprised of both the Dotta and Sugar Fires. Evacuation warnings remain in place. Highway 70, rail lines, cultural resources, historical sites, timberland, grazing resources, and critical wildlife habitat threatened. California Type 1, Team 4 (Oplinger) is in command.

July 4, 2021 at 10:08 AM

The Dotta Fire will continue to back into Horton Canyon and progress to the North side of Horton Ridge towards Dixie Valley. The Sugar Fire will continue to progress North and East into the Plumas National Forest.

The Dotta Fire started by lightning on June 30, 2021 in the area of Dotta Canyon on the Beckwourth Ranger District of the Plumas National Forest. The fire crossed over Horton Ridge and backed into Horton Canyon. Crews and dozers supported by four helicopters provided initial direct attack. On July 1, an evacuation warning was issued for Dixie Valley by the Plumas County Sheriffs’ Office.

On July 2, 2021 the Sugar Fire started by lightning west of Sugarloaf Peak on the Beckwourth Ranger District of the Plumas National Forest. Some air and ground resources from the Dotta Fire were diverted to this new fire start. The fire burned across Highway 70 in Sierra Valley causing a temporary road closure. Crews have been able to successfully defend structures to this point and no structures have been impacted.

On July 3, 2021 the Plumas County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) issued an Evacuation Advisory for residents between Maddalena Road east to Goodwin Ranch.

On July 4th at 6 a.m. California Interagency Incident Management Team 4, led by Incident Commander Rocky Opliger, took over command and control of the two fires combining them as the Beckwourth Complex. An Incident Command Post and basecamp has been set up at the C. Roy Carmichael Elementary School in Portola, Calif.

July 3, 2021 at 8:41 PM

Red Flag Warning for dry lightning and gusty winds 7/3/21 2200 to 7/4/21 1100.

The Dotta and Sugar fires are now combined in the Beckwourth Complex. The Sugar Fire is currently 470 acres and is 25% contained. More resources are on order and should be arriving tonight. Structure protection is a priority. Crews have been able to successfully defend structures to this point and no structures have been lost. Tonight crews will try to put in direct line and take advantage of cooler temperatures and higher humidities from cloud cover.

The Dotta Fire is currently 670 acres and 15% contained. The increase in acreage is due to the smoke column laying over onto Horton Ridge and causing some movement of the fire, including a spot fire. Five hotshots crews, three engines and two dozers made good progress today to increase the containment percentage. The Evacuation Advisory for Dixie Valley remains in effect.

July 3, 2021 at 8:51 AM

Evacuation Warning remains in place. Threat to cultural, timber, recreation and wildlife resources. Red Flag Warning in effect tonight at 11 pm for lightning and strong winds.

Aircraft and other resources were shifted to the Sugar Fire yesterday afternoon to assist with immediate needs. Direct attack along the fire’s edge is still working, and crews will continue with that tactic today, supported by helicopters.

July 1, 2021 at 9:13 PM

Crews were able to take advantage of moderate fire behavior today to gain some ground on the Dotta Fire. They were assisted by a strong showing of air support from both helicopters and air tankers.

More accurate mapping shows the fire currently at around 480 acres, with 5% containment.

Fire spread in Horton Canyon was somewhat sheltered from the prevailing winds, which has also assisted in firefighting efforts.

Firefighters will continue with structure preparation as a precautionary measure, although the fire is currently burning away from Dixie Valley.

July 1, 2021 at 4:20 PM

The latest update estimates the fire at 350 acres.

July 1, 2021 at 11:55 AM

The fire has crossed over Horton Ridge and is backing into Horton Canyon. Crews and dozers supported by 4 helicopters are building direct fireline.

July 1, 2021 at 8:11 AM

Latest report puts the fire at 200 acres and 5% contained. Additional resources are arriving today. Evacuation warning for Dixie Valley remains in place.

June 30, 2021 at 9:17 PM

From the Plumas NF:

On advice from the Incident Commander the Plumas County Sheriff’s Department called for Evacuation Warnings ( no official evacuation level) from the west end of Dixie Valley Rd to Beckwourth/Genesee Rd County Rd 171 out to Frenchman Lake
Acres: 150
Engines: 16
Dozers: 2
Aircraft: 17
Crews: 2 (20 each)
Tenders: 5
More resources are on order.
Resources from partner agencies assisting on the Dotta Fire
Beckwourth Fire Dept
Additional resources from Lassen Modoc Unit Cal Fire
Lassen NF
Tahoe NF
Northern Operational District BLM

June 30, 2021 at 6:57 PM

An evacuation warning has been issued for Dixie Valley by the Plumas County Sheriff’s Office, according to a PNF spokesperson.

June 30, 2021 at 6:12 PM

Hotshot crew has been assigned and is on the ground.

June 30, 2021 at 5:38 PM

Fire continues to burn at a rapid rate of spread, in heavy brush and timber.

Units assigned to the fire: BC-12 PNF BC-13 PNF BC-14 PNF DIV-1 PNF DZ-1 PNF DZ-2 PNF E-13 PNF E-311 PNF E-324 PNF E-332 PNF E-35 PNF E-9906 FSM H-512 MOD 19.