Fire at a glance (numbers)
- Incident Name:
- State:
- Lead Agency:
- Size (acres):
- Percent Contained:
- Estimate of Containment:
- Personnel:
- Structures Destroyed:
North, Tahoe NF. Nine miles northeast of Alta, CA. Timber and brush. Minimal fire behavior.
September 17, 2018 at 10:05 AM
The North Fire transitioned to a Type 4 Incident at 6:00 am on Sunday, September 16, 2018 due to 100% containment within the fire lines. Patrol of the fire area continues.
Onion Valley Campground, North Fork Campground, and Tunnel Mills Campground continues to be closed. A portion of Forest Service Road 19 remains under a soft closure.
The fire will continue to smolder and consume scattered large logs inside the fire lines until autumnal precipitation arrives or the fuel is consumed.
September 14, 2018 at 11:06 AM
Management of the North Fire, located south of Emigrant Gap, CA, is being managed by a Tahoe National Forest type 3 team.
The fire held within containment lines last night with minimal fire behavior. Resources continue to be released as significant work has been completed. The focus now is implementing fire suppression and repair efforts. Those efforts are being completed with equipment and crews who are working under the direction of resource advisors. The two are working side by side rehabilitating firelines and other areas impacted during firefighting efforts. The goal is to reduce erosion and other impacts from suppression activities.
The Tahoe National Forest Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) Coordinator completed an assessment of the North Fire. Based on an evaluation of the size and severity of the fire, impacts on life, safety, as well as natural and cultural resources, a Burned Area Emergency Response is not necessary. Natural resource managers will continue to monitor fire area conditions. It is anticipated that The Blue Canyon Airport will open on Monday September 17, 2018.
September 13, 2018 at 6:40 PM
The U.S. Forest Service would like to recognize Jai Odyssea who demonstrated outstanding effort, diligence and bravery in the line of duty. On the Labor Day holiday, right around 3 p.m., Jai Odyssea, a Recreation Specialist for the Tahoe National Forest was about to return to his Ranger District. On the way, he noticed the handy-work of two young kids who were building a dam on the edge of a stream causing water to flood a campground. Jai stopped to replace the rocks which prevented water from flooding the site.
Just as Jai was about to leave, a young woman in a white sedan waved frantically at Jai, pleading for him to rescue an elderly woman, Rebecca, who had a hard time getting herself out of the North Fork of the North Fork of the American River. (Yep, it’s a mouthful). In addition, the woman wanted to alert authorities about an approaching fire. Based on her report and knowing how dry it was, Jai reached for his radio to call dispatch to apprise them of the fire. The time was approximately 3:10pm. That important task done, Jai listened as she told him where she had last seen her companion–and then she drove off! Jai next went to rescue Rebecca. Read the rest of the story here.
September 12, 2018 at 7:31 AM
The Tahoe National Forest has produced this podcast about the North Fire.
September 11, 2018 at 7:29 PM
This morning, September 11, 2018, at approximately 5:45 a.m., Antonio (Tony) Flores, 37, an employee with Kent Siller Trucking, was involved in a fatal vehicle accident on west bound I-80 just east of Blue Canyon. Mr. Flores was working for the company and assigned to the North Fire as a private contractor operating a bulldozer. He was driving to the Incident Command Post located at the Blue Canyon Airport.
Management of the North Fire, located south of Emigrant Gap, CA, will be transferred to a local incident management organization Wednesday morning at 6 a.m. NorCal Incident Management Team 1 thanks Tahoe National Forest employees, cooperating and partner agencies, and local residents for their support and help in successful suppression of the North Fire, a fire that had potential to damage or destroy critical infrastructure, residences, and recreation facilities.
Fire activity continued to be minimal today, with interior islands of vegetation burning in response to dry, windy conditions. The fire stayed within containment lines and there was good progress on suppression repair work. Fire resources will continue to be reduced as mop up and suppression repair work is accomplished. The North Fire area continues to be under a Red Flag Warning for gusty winds and low humidity through Wednesday.
Fire resources continue to be downsized commensurate with the remaining suppression and repair needs.
Red Flag warning for winds and humidity from 1:00 pm today through 11:00 pm Wednesday.
Temperatures lowered into the 50s with relative humidity increasing to 25-40%. Winds became calm or light and downslope/down-valley overnight.
High temperatures today will be in the high 60s and low 70s and relative humidity lowering down to 19-25% by early afternoon. Breezy southwesterly winds, combined with low relative humidity, will create Red Flag conditions from 1:00 this afternoon through Wednesday night due to disturbance passing by to the north. Ridge top gusts to 30 mph.
#NorthFire Morning Update 9/11/18 pic.twitter.com/4JUhkd12TC
— USFS Tahoe NF (@Tahoe_NF) September 11, 2018
September 10, 2018 at 7:10 PM
Today fire activity was minimal, generally creeping and smoldering. The fire has reached the summit of Black Mountain. A large amount of suppression repair work was accomplished over most of the fire area during today’s day shift. The goal of suppression repair is to minimize or eliminate watershed damage from suppression disturbance to roads and firelines. Suppression repair will continue this week.
In the past 24 hours many fire resources were released for assignment to other incidents or for return travel to their home base. Now that the North Fire has a high level of containment and minimal fire activity, the focus is on repair and rehabilitation. As increased containment and suppression repair are accomplished, more crews, engines, heavy equipment, and overhead resources will be demobilized.
Temperatures were lower today. A Red Flag Warning for winds and low humidity will be in place from 1:00 p.m. tomorrow to midnight Wednesday.
September 10, 2018 at 7:07 AM
Overnight fire activity was minimal, with only a few islands of unburned fuels being consumed well inside the fire’s containment lines. Today firefighters will continue to patrol the entire perimeter for hot spots and focus on suppression repair work. Suppression repair fixes potential drainage problems on roads, dozer lines and hand lines used or constructed in fire suppression. Without this stabilization work, fall and winter rains can trigger erosion and sedimentation into watercourses.
Today a large number of fire resources, including engines, crews, water tenders, and overhead personnel will be demobilized from the North Fire. Those resources will be assigned to other incidents or will return to their home units.
The suppression repair work is being done by heavy equipment traveling on narrow dirt roads accessed from the Interstate 80 Emigrant Gap exit. These same roads access the Onion Valley, North Fork, and Tunnel Mills Campgrounds. Fire traffic and heavy equipment are using these roads.
Closures and Evacuations: Onion Valley Campground, North Fork Campground, Tunnel Mills Campground and access roads to those campgrounds from the Emigrant Gap exit off I-80.
September 10, 2018 at 6:58 AM
Some interior 1000 hour fuels may continue to smolder. If fire does spot outside lines, decomposed granite and sparser fuels may limit fire spread.Islands continue to smolder and burn out with the potential for short range spotting outside the line. Possibility of roll out on steep slopes. There will be a significant demob of operational resources including: crews, engines and water tenders today.
High temperatures today will be in the mid to high 70s and relative humidity will lower down to 13-23% by late morning. Light and upslope morning winds became southwesterly 8-12 mph around 1100,with ridge gusts to 20 mph around 2:00 pm.
A system moving by to the north will create below normal high temperatures and higher afternoon relative humidity by the middle of the week, with improved overnight relative humidity recovery and stronger afternoon winds.
September 9, 2018 at 8:54 AM
Today the Yuba Gap/Lake Valley Reservoir area will reopen to public access at 8 a.m. These areas include Lodgepole Campground and Silvertip Day Use Area at Lake Valley Reservoir, Snowflower RV Resort, and residences at Crystal Lake, all accessed from the Yuba Gap exit of Interstate 80. Secure containment lines in critical areas and minimal fire activity over the past couple of days led to the reopening of these areas.
Still closed are Tahoe National Forest roads accessed via the I-80 Emigrant Gap exit, Onion Valley Campground, North Fork Campground, and Tunnel Mills Campground. Heavy fire traffic and suppression repair work on those roads make public access too hazardous at this time.
The fire was quiet last night. Today crews will patrol and extinguish hot spots on the east and northeast perimeter of the fire. Suppression repair work will begin on the rest of the fire. The objective of this work is to repair damage caused by fire suppression activities and to return the affected area to pre-fire conditions as closely as possible. Most of this work is aimed at restoring proper water drainage to roads and containment lines to minimize erosion and subsequent sediment delivery into watercourses.
Relative humidify peaked last evening around 30%, and then quickly dropped into the twenties and lower teens by day break due to drier air moving into the area overnight. Low temperatures this morning ranged from the 50s t the low 60s. Light, downslope/downvalley winds occurred throughout the period. Skies were mostly clear with a few high clouds across the area.
Temperatures will increase this afternoon into the mid 70s to near 80. Relative humidity will quickly drop down to 10-20% by late morning. Winds will be weak and upslope in the morning, then become south to southwest 5-10 mph around noon with ridge gusts to 20 mph in the afternoon.
A system moving by to the north will create below normal high temperatures and higher afternoon relative humidity by the middle of the week, with improved overnight relative humidity recovery and stronger afternoon winds.
September 8, 2018 at 8:10 PM
Firefighters have now achieved enough additional containment to eliminate the threat to the Yuba Gap and Lake Valley Reservoir areas. Those areas will reopen to public access at 8:00 a.m. Sunday, September 9. The reopened areas include Lodgepole Campground and Silvertip Day Use Area at Lake Valley Reservoir, Snowflower RV Resort, and residences at Crystal Lake, all accessed from the Yuba Gap exit of Interstate 80.
Still closed are Tahoe National Forest roads accessed via the I-80 Emigrant Gap exit, Onion Valley Campground, North Fork Campground, and Tunnel Mills Campground. Heavy fire traffic and suppression repair work on those roads make public access too hazardous at this time.
Fire activity today was minimal despite this afternoon’s gusty winds and dry conditions. Crews secured additional containment lines on the southeast perimeter.
Closures and Evacuations: Onion Valley Campground, North Fork Campground, Tunnel Mills Campground and access roads to those campgrounds from I-80.
September 8, 2018 at 8:41 AM
Fire activity decreased overnight and the fire stayed inside all containment lines. The North Fire is located south of Emigrant Gap in the North Fork of North Fork American River canyon. Firelines on the northeast perimeter may be challenged today by gusty afternoon winds and low humidity. Crews will be installing fire hose along that portion of the line this morning and extinguishing hot spots in the fire’s interior. Aircraft will be available to assist firefighters as needed. Other sections of the fire’s perimeter will be patrolled for hot spots. Work is beginning on stabilizing constructed firelines and roads in advance of fall rains. When fire managers are confident the fire will not move across containment lines most areas will reopen to public access. The public is urged to monitor Inciweb or call the public information phone number about changes to access.
BAER(Burned Area Emergency Response) Team personal will begin assessing long term fire rehab. Some fire suppression repair work may begin in the northwest (Div A)portion of the fire.
Current threats continue to include the Union Pacific railroad system, a major utility corridor, the Interstate 80 corridor, Snowflower RV Resort, structures at Lake Valley Reservoir, and private timberland.
Closures: The following roads and campgrounds are closed until further notice: Yuba Gap Road at I-80; Onion Valley CG, North Fork CG, Tunnel Mills CG, Lodgepole CG, Silvertip Day Use Area and Snowflower RV Resort.
Evacuations: Evacuations are in place for Crystal Lake Lodge and the following campgrounds (CGs): Onion Valley CG, North Fork CG, Tunnel Mills CG, Lodgepole CG, Silvertip Day Use Area, and Snowflower RV Resort. There are currently no other evacuations in place.
#NorthFire morning update 9/8/18 pic.twitter.com/2YO0Oh0SsH
— USFS Tahoe NF (@Tahoe_NF) September 8, 2018
September 7, 2018 at 7:19 PM
Today the North Fire, which is located south of Emigrant Gap in the North Fork of North Fork American River canyon, was moderately active with short-range spotting, smoldering and creeping. One small spot crossed a containment line in the Black Mountain area this afternoon but was extinguished by air and ground resources.
Most of the fire’s activity was unburned vegetation being consumed in the interior of the fire. The fire is expected to remain moderately active until sunset. Night shift crews will concentrate on constructing a few remaining sections of direct line in the northeast corner, as well as holding and improving existing lines in that area. Elsewhere on the fire’s perimeter firefighters will be patrolling and extinguishing any hot spots near containment lines. Once fire activity stays minimal most areas will reopen to public access.
September 7, 2018 at 7:27 AM
Last night fire activity on the North Fire decreased after sunset and the fire remained mostly quiet during the night shift. The North Fire is located south of Emigrant Gap in the North Fork of North Fork American River canyon. The fire is currently confined by a combination of constructed firelines and natural barriers.
Today crews will build more direct line in the northeast corner near Black Mountain and improve existing containment lines in that area.
On the rest of the fire’s perimeter crews will patrol and extinguish any hot spots near containment lines. If the fire activity remains minimal today, threats to values at risk from the fire will be diminished and most areas will reopen to public access.
#NorthFire 9/7/18 morning update pic.twitter.com/NohosvSoAf
— USFS Tahoe NF (@Tahoe_NF) September 7, 2018
September 7, 2018 at 7:04 AM
Planned Actions: Mop up the northwest and southwest portion of the fire. Continue to build direct line up both flanks. Scout out locations for contingency lines.
Night temperatures were in the 60s across the fire with relative humidity only increasing slightly to 25-35%. Light, downslope/down-valley winds occurred throughout the period. Skies were mostly clear.
Temperatures will increase this afternoon into the upper 70s to lower 80s. Relative humidity will quickly drop down to around 15-20% by late morning and continue into the afternoon. Winds will be weak and upslope in the morning and then became south to southwest 5-10mph around noon, with ridge gusts to 20 mph in the afternoon.
September 6, 2018 at 7:36 PM
The North Fire, located south of Emigrant Gap in the North Fork of North Fork American River canyon, is now confined by constructed firelines and by natural barriers. In the next 24 hours the fire’s perimeter will be tested, particularly in the northeast corner near Black Mountain. Fire managers are feeling confident that if the fire does not grow during the next 24 hours, the forward spread of the fire will be stopped. Threats to values at risk from the fire will then diminish, and most areas will reopen to public access.
The success of the direct and indirect attack suppression strategy to date is a result of several days of solid cooperative air and ground firefighting efforts aimed at limiting the fire’s spread. Relatively favorable weather and terrain also allowed direct fireline construction on most of the perimeter.
Current threats continue to include the Union Pacific railroad system, a major utility corridor, the Interstate 80corridor, Snowflower RV Resort, structures at Lake Valley Reservoir, and private timberland.
September 6, 2018 at 7:17 PM
Fire may continue to make slope runs to the north and east. Roll out is of concern to the northeast and southeast. Short-range spotting possible.
Temperatures rose into the upper 70s to lower 80s this afternoon. Relative humidity lowered down to around 20-25% by late morning.
Light and upslope winds became south to southwest 5-10 mph in the late morning, with ridge gusts to 22 mph in the afternoon.
Tonight’s temps will be in the 60s with relative humidity only increasing slightly to 25-35%. Breezy winds in the evening will become light and downslope overnight.
September 6, 2018 at 9:01 AM
USFS Update
The northeast side of the fire in the Black Mountain area had some short-range spotting which crews were able to successfully contain and continue to build line. Containment lines on west and south, and most of the north side of the fire were quiet last night. Today’s weather is expected to be slightly drier than yesterday, with similar winds. Most of the fire activity this afternoon is predicted to be on the northeast corner. Crews will use a combination of direct and indirect tactics to contain the fire in that area.
Current threats in the northeast direction of the fire spread include the Union Pacific railroad system, a major utility corridor, the Interstate 80 corridor, Snowflower RV Resort, and structures at Lake Valley Reservoir.
Closures: Placer County Sheriff’s Office has closed the following roads and campgrounds: Yuba Gap Road at I-80; Emigrant Gap Road at I-80; Onion Valley Campground, North Fork Campground, Tunnel Mills Campground, Lodgepole Campground, Silvertip Day Use Area and Snowflower RV Resort.
Evacuations: Evacuations are in place for the following campgrounds only: Onion Valley CG, North Fork CG, Tunnel Mills CG, Lodgepole CG, Silvertip Day Use Area, and Snowflower RV Resort. There are currently no other evacuation in place.
September 6, 2018 at 8:52 AM
Air Attack 17 is over the North Fire, flying reconnaissance.
September 6, 2018 at 7:45 AM
Fire may continue to make slope runs to the north and east. Roll out is of concern to the northeast and southeast. Short-range spotting possible.
Fire behavior decreased slightly during the night. The short range spotting that occurred all day ended at sundown.
Relative humidity peaked last evening around 40%, and then decreased a bit overnight with weak down-sloping winds. Lows dipped down into the 60s. Skies remained clear. temperatures will increase this afternoon into the upper 70s to lower 80s. Relative humidity will quickly drop into the teens to mid-twenties by late morning. Winds will be weak and upslope in the morning, and then become southwest 5-10 around noon, with ridge gusts to 18 mph in the afternoon.
September 5, 2018 at 10:26 PM
USFS Update: Approximately 275 additional acres were burned, as the fire progressed to the north and east in the general direction of the 2001 Gap burn. Containment lines on the west and south were improved and held throughout the day. Progression on the west, south, and large portion of the north side of fire is going well as crews continue to hold and improve containment lines tonight in preparation for additional direct and indirect fireline construction.
Current threats to the northeast include railroad systems, buried gas lines, the Interstate 80 corridor, Snowflower RV Resort, and organizational camps at Lake Valley Reservoir.
Closures: Placer County Sheriff’s Office has closed the following roads and campgrounds: Yuba Gap Road at I-80; Emigrant Gap Road at I-80; Onion Valley Campground, North Fork Campground, Tunnel MillsCampground, Lodgepole Campground, Silvertip Day Use Area and Snowflower RV Resort.
Evacuations: Evacuations are still in place for the following campgrounds only: Onion Valley CG, North Fork CG, Tunnel Mills CG, Lodgepole CG, Silvertip Day Use Area, and Snowflower RV Resort. There are currently no other evacuation in place.
September 5, 2018 at 9:16 PM
Fire burned actively with short range spotting occurring all day. Fire is at high elevation with some natural barriers in front of it. Terrain is rugged with steep slops.
Planned Actions
Continue to build direct line from the heel of the fire up both flanks. Scout out locations for contingency lines.
Projected Incident Activity
Fire will continue to make slope runs to the north and east.
September 5, 2018 at 4:33 PM
The Nevada County Public Health Officer and the Northern Sierra Air Quality Management District are issuing a joint air quality health advisory to notify the public of potentially poor air quality conditions through this weekend resulting mainly from the North Fire in Placer County. Conditions are expected to vary widely from Good to Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups, reaching the Unhealthy range in some areas, depending on wind direction, fire behavior and other factors. Smoke is expected to settle in the Truckee area at night and occasionally be carried directly from the fire during the daytime if winds are from the west.
September 5, 2018 at 4:19 PM
With increasing fire behavior, North Air Attack is ordering up Tanker 88 and one additional tanker from the Grass Valley Air Attack Base.
September 5, 2018 at 2:10 PM
North Air Attack confirms a reported spot fire is inside the retardant line.
September 5, 2018 at 10:59 AM
The map above now shows the two largest previous fires in the area: The 2008 Government Complex (blue) and the 2001 Gap Fire (pink). The double arrow in the upper lefthand corner of the map opens the legend.
September 5, 2018 at 10:06 AM
People are being allowed back into the Snowflower RV park between 10:00am and 2:00 pm to retrieve personal belongings. Personnel will be at the entrance to monitor.
September 5, 2018 at 10:04 AM
North Air Attack is requesting 2 S-2s for retardant drops on the north end of the fire.
September 5, 2018 at 8:07 AM
Fire behavior was moderate last night with backing and flanking fire observed. Evacuations remain for campgrounds in the area. The Wild and Scenic American River, private timber lands, transportation infrastructure, railway, power and communication infrastructure, gas lines and cultural sites are threatened.
September 5, 2018 at 7:08 AM
NorCal Team 1 has taken command of the fire.
September 4, 2018 at 7:05 PM
The fire is now estimated at 700 acres. The cause remains under investigation. Fire behavior remained active with uphill runs and spotting. Union Pacific rail lines and gas distribution lines are in the area of the fire.
September 4, 2018 at 6:28 PM
Northstar Fire Department: Drift smoke advisory issued for Northstar due to the North fire in the area of Emigrant gap. No threat to Northstar at this time.
September 4, 2018 at 6:25 PM
Over 500 firefighters are now assigned to the incident. Good progress made on the west flank near I-80.
September 4, 2018 at 4:09 PM
Helicopters continue to work spots on the east side.
September 4, 2018 at 2:53 PM
Air Attack 06 is handing the fire back to Air Attack 17 which is now North Air Attack.
September 4, 2018 at 2:50 PM
Tankers assigned on the fire are Tankers 107, 100, 118, 40, 10, 88, 105 and Tanker 911 is at McClellan on a hold. Some possible spots on Monumental Ridge.
September 4, 2018 at 2:48 PM
Helicopters are working the east flank with their crews, this evening the helibase is being relocated to Truckee.
September 4, 2018 at 2:40 PM
Fire activity has picked up significantly on the eastern flank of the fire. Aircraft are focusing on the area, attempting to slow down fire progression with retardant drops.
September 4, 2018 at 12:41 PM
Update from the Tahoe National Forest:
The North Fire is burning on both sides of the North Fork of North Fork American River Canyon near North Fork Campground. Updated mapping re-established a total of 500 acres. The North Fork of the American River canyon is steep and remote terrain. The fire is burning in mixed brush and timber with a rapid rate of spread.
Last night, handcrews, engines, and dozers operators worked through the night establishing an anchor point and are beginning to flank the fire.
Closures: Placer County Sheriff’s Office has closed the following roads and campgrounds: Yuba Gap Road at 1-80; Emigrant Gap Road at I-80; Crystal Lake Road at I-80; Onion Valley, North Fork, Tunnel Mills, Lodgepole, Silvertip, and Snowflower Campgrounds.
Evacuations: None at this time.
September 4, 2018 at 12:03 PM
North Air Attack is confirming firefighters are going direct, given the type of fuels and the direction of the fire. Air Attack 17 is returning to Grass Valley after handing off the incident to AC 90.
September 4, 2018 at 11:48 AM
VLAT is over the fire, DC-10 also known as Tanker 10, flying out of McClellan Base.
September 4, 2018 at 11:38 AM
Two additional water tenders requested for Division Tango. Thanks to the numerous Forest roads in the area, access to the fire is possible for this type of apparatus.
September 4, 2018 at 11:03 AM
North Air Attack has no immediate threat to life or structures, holding off on ordering the Super Scoopers for now. If they are activated they will dip into Spaulding.
The Tahoe National Forest has set up an information line for the fire at (530) 478-6880.
NorCal Team 1 will report to the fire at 5:00 pm today and assume command of the incident.
September 4, 2018 at 9:48 AM
North Air Attack is ordering 2 large air tankers for the fire.
Activity is starting to pick up.
September 4, 2018 at 9:11 AM
Fire behavior at this time is backing and flanking in timber and brush, according to North Air Attack. 75% of the fire appears to be active.
September 4, 2018 at 9:06 AM
Air Attack 17 is now North AA. Order for 2 S2 tankers being placed now.
September 4, 2018 at 8:12 AM
Updated acreage and containment, now 500 acres and 10% contained.
September 4, 2018 at 7:40 AM
Weather forecast for today:
Poor humidity recoveries are expected for the area the next few nights with max humidities recovering into the 30 percent range by late evening then decreasing late at night. Light downslope/downvalley winds can be expected at night and in the morning shifting upslope/upvalley by the afternoon .
September 4, 2018 at 7:09 AM
Control objectives for today (the big box):
Keep the fire South of the North Fork of the North Fork of the American River
Keep the fire West of Black Mountain
Keep the fire North of the 45 Road
Keep the fire East of the 19 Road
The fire was fairly active overnight as seen in this near-IR footage from the Bald Mountain cam part of the University of Nevada, Reno Seismo lab AlertTahoe network.
September 4, 2018 at 6:55 AM
Revised acreage is now 450 acres. Firefighters have made good progress on the west side of the fire (closest to I-80). The east side toward Monumental Ridge and Black Mountain is an area of concern.
September 4, 2018 at 6:14 AM
In Placer County, Interstate 80, the westbound and eastbound Yuba Gap off-ramps and the westbound, eastbound Emigrant off-ramps are closed due to a fire. The eastbound Laing off-ramp is closed. The estimated time of clearing is not available. A detour is not provided.
September 4, 2018 at 6:00 AM
Added NASA hotspot detection to the map. A perimeter map will be available once the fire has been mapped.
September 3, 2018 at 9:53 PM
A Type 2 Team (Coots) has been ordered for the North Fire, tentative inbrief set for tomorrow afternoon.
September 3, 2018 at 9:36 PM
Overnight, firefighters will build lines and scout areas for potential firebreaks or backburns. Public and firefighter safety are the #1 priority. At this time, all campgrounds and day use areas in the Emigrant Gap area south of I-80 have been evacuated as a precautionary measure.
September 3, 2018 at 8:56 PM
Per Tahoe NF: Resources currently responding and/or ordered include 14 Hand Crews, 20 Engines, 5 Bulldozers, 5 Water Tenders. Daylight tomorrow brings 5 helicopters and 7 fixed-wing aircraft including a VLAT.
September 3, 2018 at 8:13 PM
Latest official estimate puts the fire at 650 acres. Complexity analysis is underway to determine the need for a Type 1 or 2 Team to be called up or local resources with mutual aid to handle the incident.
September 3, 2018 at 7:31 PM
The largest spot fire is estimated to be 5-10 acres.
September 3, 2018 at 6:58 PM
Forest Road 19 has been cleared of all visitors and campers to provide better access for the firefighters.
September 3, 2018 at 6:39 PM
North IC will be placing a large resource order for the next operational period. The very steep terrain and the bug kill timber present hazardous conditions for firefighters on the ground. All aircraft will be off the fire at 7:30pm at the latest.
September 3, 2018 at 6:33 PM
Air Attack 7 GB is now North Air Attack. Air Attack 17 is returning to the Grass Valley Air Attack Base.
September 3, 2018 at 6:31 PM
Largest spot is about 2 acres on Monument Peak and a handful of smaller spots in heavy timber.
September 3, 2018 at 6:24 PM
The fire is now well established in the drainage, burning at a rapid rate of spread with spotting. Visibility is starting to become an issue for the air tankers.
September 3, 2018 at 6:22 PM
Air Attack expects the fire by this evening to be 600 acres. At this time about 80 acres are burning on the north side, the rest of the activity is on the south side of the river.
September 3, 2018 at 6:19 PM
Footage from Tanker 118 courtesy of @prkbro
September 3, 2018 at 6:10 PM
Eastbound I-80 Emigrant Gap, Yuba Gap off ramps are shut down now.
September 3, 2018 at 5:50 PM
Latest estimate is 500 acres, now burning in the bug kill timber. Medium range spotting still a concern.
September 3, 2018 at 5:34 PM
Tankers are still trying to slow the progress of the fire, dozers are making their way to the ridgelines to reinforce firebreaks.
September 3, 2018 at 5:31 PM
At this time, the fire is burning away from I-80 but smoke is creating hazardous conditions. Please do NOT slow down or stop on the highway to look at the fire!
September 3, 2018 at 5:27 PM
Spotfires are continuing to pose problems, one new spot now on top of the ridgeline on the north side. Helicopters will try to contain as fast as possible.
September 3, 2018 at 5:24 PM
The day use campground at Lake Valley Reservoir on Forest Rd 19 is being evacuated by Placer County Sheriff’s deputies.
September 3, 2018 at 5:23 PM
The cause of the fire is under investigation at this time. Investigators are en route to the ignition point.
September 3, 2018 at 5:18 PM
I80 off ramps for Crustal Lake Road and Lake Valley Road are closed.
September 3, 2018 at 5:15 PM
Striketeams and other resources will form up at the Nyack Shell Station on I-80.
September 3, 2018 at 5:12 PM
Blue Canyon Airport will be the designated heliport.
September 3, 2018 at 5:09 PM
Securing the north side of the fire before the downslope evening winds set in is a priority.
September 3, 2018 at 5:08 PM
Traffic on I-80 is very heavily congested. The fire is now in unified command between the Tahoe National Forest and Cal Fire NEU.
September 3, 2018 at 5:04 PM
The person left in the fire area was extricated at 4:37 pm.
September 3, 2018 at 4:58 PM
The fire is on the North fork on the American River, burning to the southeast. Still estimated at 20 acres and spotting.
September 3, 2018 at 4:49 PM
Two Type 1 and one Type 2 helicopters requested.
September 3, 2018 at 4:46 PM
North Air Attack is requesting 2 additional VLATS in addition to the 2 working the fire.
September 3, 2018 at 4:43 PM
Concerns for the fire include the downslope winds that will appear as soon as the sun sets. Spotting is still a concern. Additional dozers and strike teams ordered.
September 3, 2018 at 4:39 PM
Tanker 914 is arriving over the fire. Tanker 917 is now dropping on the left flank.
September 3, 2018 at 4:38 PM
Committed at this time: 20 engines, 4 crews, 4 water tenders, 2 dozers and numerous aircraft. A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is now in effect.
September 3, 2018 at 4:36 PM
Latest size-up puts the fire at 200+ acres. Still burning at a rapid rate of spread in mixed fuels, brush and timber.
September 3, 2018 at 4:34 PM
⚠️Please avoid the area of Emigrant Gap. Very heavy traffic on Interstate 80. Travel in the area is not recommended. Campgrounds are being evacuated. ⚠️ pic.twitter.com/N9XOL3CXAg
— Placer Sheriff (@PlacerSheriff) September 3, 2018
September 3, 2018 at 4:26 PM
VLATs are inbound to the fire. The fire is spotting 100-150ft outside the lines.
September 3, 2018 at 4:21 PM
The campground and the roads and rail in the area are being evacuated to permit better access for the ground resources.
September 3, 2018 at 4:17 PM
The fire is spotting, crowning in timber now. Retardant lines are not holding in some places.
The fire is going extended attack, meaning it cannot be contained within one operational period.
September 3, 2018 at 4:16 PM
Air Attack estimates at 150-175 acres with a potential for much more.
September 3, 2018 at 4:14 PM
North Fork Campground, Onion Valley Campground and Tunnel Mills Campground on Texas Hill Road in Emigrant Gap are being evacuated.
— Placer Sheriff (@PlacerSheriff) September 3, 2018
September 3, 2018 at 4:10 PM
Placer County Sheriff’s deputies en route to the campground to assist with evacuation of the campground.
September 3, 2018 at 4:05 PM
Some additional spots on the south side of the creek, fire activity is increasing.
September 3, 2018 at 4:04 PM
North Air Attack is requesting one or two VLATs if available. The fire is now estimated at 15 acres, burning at a rapid rate of spread.
September 3, 2018 at 3:58 PM
Still 6 airtankers, including heavy tankers, assigned to the fire. Ground access is difficult for engines, water tenders and dozers. The plan is to push the fire to the north into an old burn scar.
September 3, 2018 at 3:53 PM
Tanker 107 is inbound from McClellan to the North Fire.
September 3, 2018 at 3:51 PM
On spot on the south side of the creek Air Attack reports.
September 3, 2018 at 3:45 PM
Additional ground resources on order for the fire. Firefighters are still attempting to locate the individual left behind.
September 3, 2018 at 3:40 PM
Tankers are focusing on the south and southeast sides now.
September 3, 2018 at 3:34 PM
A non-ambulatory individual was left at a swimming hole upstream from the fire. The rest of the party fled from the fire. No divert on the air tankers for imminent life threat.
September 3, 2018 at 3:30 PM
No divert for all 6 air tankers ordered due to the growth potential.
September 3, 2018 at 3:20 PM
Air Attack 17 overhead of the North Fire, burning in fairly flat terrain, backed against a creek on one side. Possibly a two-track road leading to the fire, could provide access for engines. Tanker 88 has dropped their retardant, returning to Grass Valley for a reload. One spot on the south side of the creek.
September 3, 2018 at 3:13 PM
Air Attack 17 is en route to the North Fire from Grass Valley.
September 3, 2018 at 3:11 PM
No size-up on the North Fire yet, caller stated is was “very large.” One unit is making their way to the incident on the 19 Forest Road.
September 3, 2018 at 3:01 PM
Full wildland dispatch for a vegetation fire, reported across the river from the North Fork Campground on the Tahoe National Forest in the Texas Hill area.
How maney VLATS are at McEllan air park Im in the flight path and have seen 4 velat and a costie c130 head up to the fire on 80.
4 VLAT and several heavies assigned.
Thank you.
So they are killing air resources at 7:30 PM?
No “Lauren” they are not killing the air resources. It is unsafe for the planes to fly after sunset due to lack of visibility.
Cutoff time for aircraft is 30 minutes before sunset. It’s for safety reasons, because they can’t see. There are some helicopters that are certified for night flying, but they are only for medevac.
All aircraft must be on the ground within 35 minutes of sunset.
All aircraft must be on ground 35 minutes after sunset. Pumpkin time.
Yes, that’s a technical term!
Thank you for always keeping us updated!
Your hard work is appreciated!
Is there any idea of the direction this fire might take? Is there reason for concern for Cisco Grove/Soda Springs areas?
We’ll have a better idea after the morning briefing but Cisco and Soda Springs are quite a distance away.
What’s status of fire now? I just woke up choking from all the smoke in my house. Yikes! thank y’all for keeping us updated well. We really appreciate it
Morning update around 7, but it burned actively through the night.
So deeply grateful for the rapid and STRONG response of the US Forest Service! More tactical to come. ICP at Blue Canyon Airport is waking up as we do too here, Cars packed but with special thanks to sleep in our own beds last night. As I recall, only YOU can prevent forest fires! Prayers for the day ahead and 100% containment.
Thanks for your excellent timely and informative updates and map. I keep listening to KVMR for your updates but don’t hear any. When will you be on?
I will be on shortly, I hope.
What campgrounds are evaluated?
Placer County Sheriff’s Office has closed the following roads and campgrounds: Yuba Gap Road at 1-80; Emigrant Gap Road at I-80; Crystal Lake Road at I-80; Onion Valley, North Fork, Tunnel Mills, Lodgepole, Silvertip, and Snowflower Campgrounds.
Thank you for the ongoing updates! Fyi, The campground off of the yuba gap exit is Thousand Trails – Snowflower (not Sunflower…)
Tanker 10 is not a VLAT… Taker 10 is a LAT. 10 Taker Carrier operates Tanker 910, 911, 912, and 914
What is the term “COOTS” in reference to? I know it’s a bird. Could it be a type of aircraft? Thank you. When do you rest?
Coots is the last name of the Incident Commander 😉
Thankyou so much for your help. We live at blue canyon and are very thankful.
Will we be getting an update anytime soon? Thanks again for all your hard work…its much appreciated!
What does the fire term “roll out” mean?
Posted with most recent update
Roll out is of concern to the northeast and southeast. Short-range spotting possible.
Roll out means trees or rocks rolling down a slope as firefighters are working below. In the fire area, bark beetles have killed a lot of trees that can fall over or snap very easily, hence the note of concern.
Where can I find a key to what the colors mean on the map?
In the upper left-hand corner of the map, the double arrows open the legend. Or, you can just click one of the colored polygons on the map and it’ll tell you what the colors mean. 🙂
Thank you
5 days later and fire/burn acres sane as day 2 — 55% containment – and set to fully contain by Sept 15 – not 22 or 30. What a exceptionally well managed, coordinated and strategized wild fire fight. I could not be
more grateful. Im praying with family enduring the Delta Fire. We need each other now. Thank you for helping me have the strength and resources to be there for them
in Shasta County.
Thank you all so much for your hard work! Greatly appreciated!