Walker, Genesee

Walker, Plumas NF, USFS. even miles east of Taylorsville, CA. Timber and medium logging slash. Area and road closures in effect.

September 26, 2019 at 8:29 AM

Today, management of the fire turns over to the Plumas National Forest Type 3 Incident Management Team. Fire personnel continue to monitor the fire perimeter to ensure that all of the visible smoke is within the interior. To date, fire crews and equipment have accomplished 27% of the 75 miles of dozer line and 100% of the 14 miles of handline and 73% of the 62 miles of road repair. Fire patrol and suppression-repair will continue until completed. Resource Advisers continue to work with hand crews and equipment during repair operations to help protect natural and cultural resources and to restore the firelines back to their natural condition by pulling topsoil and vegetation into the disturbed areas where fireline was constructed.

The warming trend continues today with temperatures in the lower 80’s and relative humidity in the mid-20% range. Winds will shift today, out of the southwest. Precipitation is expected to move in late Friday through Sunday with temperatures in the 50’s and relative humidity near 40% during the day. Snow is forecasted for Sunday night.

Many hazards still exist within the fire area including fire weakened trees, rolling materials and poor road conditions. Hazard tree removal continues along many of the roads. Wood chippers are also being utilized along roads to remove brush and slash created from fire suppression efforts.

A Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) team is conducting an assessment of the Walker Fire. BAER teams assess the risk of destabilization of the soils within burned areas to human life and property.

The following Forest roads are open to the public for through travel: Beckwourth-Taylorsville Road (Forest Road 113); Forest Road 01 and 172, from the Janesville Grade to Genesee Valley (Antelope Lake Road); Forest Road 111 from the Flournoy Bridge to the Forest Boundary.

Forest Closure: The Forest Closure Order for portions of the Mt. Hough and Beckwourth Ranger Districts on the Plumas National Forest remains in effect with the exception of the roads listed above that have been reopened.

September 25, 2019 at 7:45 AM

The warming trend continues today with temperatures in the lower 80’s and relative humidity in the 30% range. Stumps and logs continue to put up smoke within the interior of the fire containment lines. Fire personnel continue to monitor the fire perimeter to ensure that all of the visible smoke is within the interior.

To date, fire crews have accomplished 22% of the 75 miles of dozer line and 92% of the 14 miles of handline and 47% of the 61 miles of road repair. Resource Advisers continue to work with hand crews and equipment during repair operations to help protect natural and cultural resources and to restore the firelines back to their natural condition by pulling topsoil and vegetation into the disturbed areas where fireline was constructed. The Plumas National Forest helicopter remains available to fire personnel if needed.

Many hazards still exist within the fire area including fire weakened trees, rolling materials and poor road conditions. Hazard tree removal continues along many of the roads. Wood chippers are also being utilized along roads to remove brush and slash created from fire suppression efforts.

A Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) team is conducting an assessment of the Walker Fire. BAER teams assess the risk of destabilization of the soils within burned areas to human life and property.

September 25, 2019 at 5:50 AM

With the dry weather and hotter temperatures today, stumps and logs will continue to put up smoke within the interior of the fire containment lines. Fire personnel continue to monitor the fire perimeter to ensure that all of the visible smoke is within the interior. To date, fire crews have accomplished 16% of the 72 miles of dozer line and 92% of the 14 miles of handline and 31% of the 60 miles of road repair. Resource Advisers continue to work with hand crews and equipment during repair operations to help protect natural and cultural resources and to restore the firelines back to their natural condition by pulling topsoil and vegetation into the disturbed areas where fireline was constructed. The Plumas National Forest helicopter remains available to fire personnel if needed.

September 23, 2019 at 8:01 AM

With the warmer and drier weather yesterday, stumps and logs within the interior of the fire produced smoke. Fire personnel flew over the fire and crews patrolled the fire perimeter to ensure that all of the visible smoke was coming from within the interior. More equipment and fire hose were brought off the fire and returned to camp. To date, fire crews have accomplished 7% of the 76 miles of dozer line and 54% of the 13 miles of handline repair. Additional excavators arrived and more are on order. A chipper and two road graders arrived to assist with fireline and road repair. Resource Advisers continue to work with the crews during repair operations to help protect natural and cultural resources and to restore the firelines back to their natural condition by pulling topsoil and vegetation into the disturbed areas where fireline was constructed.

September 21, 2019 at 8:47 AM

Assessing the amount of suppression repair work on the Walker Fire is nearing completion. A total of 93 miles of containment line were constructed to contain and suppress the fire. To date, fire personnel have repaired 4% of the 76 miles of dozer line and 18% of the 17 miles of handline. More equipment is on order to assist with suppression repair. Handcrews, excavators and small dozers are currently being used for suppression repair in the northeastern and northern parts of the fireline. They are working closely with Resource Advisers to protect natural and cultural resources during repair operations and to restore the firelines back to their natural condition by pulling topsoil and vegetation into the disturbed areas where fireline was constructed.

The weather will be warmer and drier today with temperatures in the lower 70’s and relative humidity in the 20% range. An east wind is expected today. Fire behavior is still expected to be minimal today, primarily in stump holes and in heavy logs. There may be scattered fire creeping within the interior as mop up and patrol efforts continue. A cold front is expected late Sunday night with gusty winds out of the southwest up to 20-30 mph.

Many hazards still exist within the fire area including fire weakened trees, rolling materials and poor road conditions. Hazard tree removal continues along many of the roads and wood chippers are also being utilized to remove brush and slash from the burn area. The following Forest roads are now open to the public for through travel: Forest Road 01 and 172, from the Janesville Grade to Genesee Valley (Antelope Lake Road); Forest Road 111 from the Flournoy Bridge to the Forest Boundary.

September 20, 2019 at 7:20 AM

The California Interagency Incident Management Team 10 assumes command of the fire this morning with Incident Commander Eric Petterson. The Incident Command Post has moved to the fire camp already located at Four Corners. California Incident Management Team 4 will be leaving today and the fire camp near Taylorsville Fairgrounds will be dismantled and cleaned up.

A light rain fell over the fire yesterday cooling the smoldering logs. The fire may continue to smolder and burn in heavier timbered areas well within the containment lines.

Fire personnel continue suppression repair activities today with hand crews and excavators. They are working closely with Resource Advisers to restore dozer lines in the fire area and returning the slope back to its natural condition by pulling topsoil and vegetation into the disturbed areas where fireline was constructed.

The Forest Closure Order remains in effect. Many hazards still exist within the fire area including fire weakened trees, rolling materials and poor road conditions. Hazard tree removal continues along many of the roads and wood chippers are also being utilized to remove brush and slash from the burn area.

September 19, 2019 at 8:52 AM

Overnight, a half an inch of rain fell throughout the fire area assisting with extinguishing lingering hot spots. Smoke may continue to be visible over the following days as the fire creeps and smolders in unburned fuels within the fire’s interior.

Fire personnel continue to complete suppression repair focusing on mitigating disturbed areas caused by suppression activities. Hand crews and excavators are actively restoring dozer lines in the fire area and returning the slope back to its natural condition by pulling topsoil and vegetation into the disturbed areas where fireline was constructed.

The Forest Closure Order remains in effect. Many hazards still exist within the fire area including fire weakened trees, rolling materials and poor road conditions. Hazard tree removal continues along many of the roads and wood chippers are also being utilized to remove brush and slash from the burn area.

The removal of fire hose and other equipment from the fireline is near completion. Crews brought in approximately 83 miles of hose (the distance from Taylorsville to Reno, Nevada) which will be inspected and potentially reused for future incidents. In addition to the recovery of equipment and supplies, the Plumas National Forest partnered with a private contractor, Human Eco Recycle, to reduce the amount of garbage generated throughout the incident. Approximately 380 pounds of batteries, 187 bags of plastic bottles and 74 yards of cardboard have been recycled.

September 18, 2019 at 8:16 AM

QUINCY, CA – Overnight an infrared mapping flight was completed and some interior hot spots were identified, but nothing outside or near containment lines. The small increase in total acreage was due to an interior pocket burning within the fire perimeter.

Yesterday, crews patrolled and mopped up hot spots within the fire perimeter, and removed used hose, tanks and other equipment from the containment lines. Crews are now focusing on suppression repair and rehabilitation, working closely with Resource Advisors. Hand crews restored some dozer lines in the northwest section of the fire area, returning the slope back to its natural condition by pulling topsoil and vegetation back into the disturbed areas. This is done to prevent erosion, protect cultural sites and help these areas revegetate more quickly.

Firefighter safety remains a top priority. Many hazards still exist within the fire area including fire weakened trees, rolling materials and poor road conditions. Numerous fire personnel were released from the incident to return to their home units yesterday and most will be leaving by the end of this week. Aircraft remain available to support the Walker Fire and the Plumas National Forest. Yesterday they assisted with several small fires in the Forest.

Today, crews will strengthen and complete the small amount of uncontained line on the south end of the fire and continue removing unneeded equipment from the fire area. Rain showers began this morning and will continue into the afternoon with a chance of thunderstorms.

Forest Closures: Plumas National Forest has issued a Forest Order for the Mt. Hough and Beckwourth Ranger Districts. Please see Inciweb for closure information and a map of the closure area.

Road Closures: Janesville Grade, Genesee Valley Road at the Flournoy Bridge, Antelope Lake Road from the Flournoy Bridge to Antelope Dam, and beginning at the Flournoy Bridge turnoff, the 111 Beckwourth-Genesee Road is closed through the fire area.

September 17, 2019 at 7:30 AM

Overnight fire activity was minimal which allowed firefighters the opportunity to monitor and patrol the fire perimeter. Crews continued removing unneeded equipment from the fireline. Firefighter safety remains a top priority due to the many hazards that still exist within the fire area, such as fire weakened trees, loosened rocks and debris and poor road conditions.

Today, the favorable weather will improve conditions in the fire area which will allow firefighters better access to facilitate suppression repair and access equipment to be removed. Resource Advisers continue working with crews in areas disturbed by fire suppression activities. Crews will restore these areas into a condition that does not negatively affect natural and cultural resources while minimizing erosion.

With the high increase in containment and the threat of escape mitigated, a large number of fire personnel and equipment continue being released from the incident to return to their home units.

Morning fog is expected and winds should be relatively light today with fair skies and a slight increase in temperatures. Another weather system will move into northern California Wednesday bringing a good chance of wetting rain in the afternoon and evening.

September 16, 2019 at 7:55 PM

A cold front swept across northern California today bringing a significant amount of wetting rain throughout the fire area. Approximately one inch of rain and 150 lightning strikes were received throughout the day. Firefighters patrolled containment lines during the day to ensure the fire held within its perimeter.

All Evacuation Orders and Warnings have been rescinded as the threat to structures has been mitigated.

During the periods of heavy rain, fire personnel and equipment were pulled off the fireline in some areas to reduce impacts to natural resources and dirt roads.

With the high increase in containment and the threat of escape mitigated, a large number of fire personnel and equipment have started being released from the incident to return to their home units.

The priority for tonight is the continued removal of unneeded fire suppression equipment, such as fire hose, water tanks and pumps.

Cooler temperatures and lighter winds have decreased the fire activity. Showers should end this evening as the storm passes eastward bringing fog overnight and into the morning. Another drying period is expected to follow on Tuesday with a chance of rain again on Wednesday.

September 16, 2019 at 7:29 AM

Last night firefighters mopped up and patrolled the perimeter of the fire to ensure the fire stayed within containment lines the winds remained moderate. Crews mopped up two spot fires from yesterday’s activity on the south side of the fire. Both of these spot fires have been fully contained.

The Stony Fire, a new fire which started yesterday, three miles north of the Walker Fire near Clarks Peak, was held at one acre with containment line all around it. This success was due to the rapid detection and response of the Plumas National Forest and designated initial attack fire personnel from the Walker Fire. The cause of this new fire is under investigation.

Priorities for today and tonight are to monitor the fire perimeter as the rains arrive. Large trees will retain heat for a long time and can threaten the fireline if it has a chance to dry out again. Crews will continue to control erosion from the fire suppression activities, working with resource advisors to prevent damage to riparian and archaeological areas. Firefighters will be removing fire suppression equipment in areas where it is no longer needed.

Thunderstorms are anticipated along with the rain today and should end by this evening. Another drying period is expected to follow on Tuesday with a chance of rain again on Wednesday.

September 15, 2019 at 7:41 PM

Today’s Red Flag Warning resulted in wind gusts up to 40 mph and low humidities across the fire area. Crews worked through the day monitoring and holding firelines. One spot fire did occur in the southern region of the fire. Fire crews worked aggressively and the spot was fully contained. The unburned fuels within the interior of the fire ignited during the strong southwest winds today, creating a plume of smoke visible from Highway 395 and other points around the fire. Structures in this area were not threatened and crews remain on site.

Late this afternoon, a new fire (the Stony Fire) started near Clarks Peak approximately three miles north of the Walker Fire. Fire crews from the Walker Fire are augmenting local firefighters. Air resources are also providing support to the new incident. The cause of this new fire is under investigation.

Tonight’s priorities are to hold all containment lines, extinguish any spotting embers and mop up to increase containment line depth.

Tonight’s weather is expected to be warmer and drier, with winds down to 20 mph and humidities between 30 and 40 percent. Rain is predicted to start early tomorrow morning and is expected to be measureable, a half inch or more. Thunderstorms may occur in the afternoon.

September 15, 2019 at 10:59 AM

40-50 knot winds on the Walker Fire, most air tankers are being canceled.

September 15, 2019 at 8:39 AM

Today is a RED FLAG WARNING with 40 mph winds predicted and humidities in the teens. This wind event is expected to extend overnight. This is a critical fire environment with embers possibly traveling up to a ½ mile. Spotting occurred over the line along the south edge of the fire last night. Firefighters are working diligently to fully contain these spot fires and have made good progress in doing so. Around the remainder of the fire perimeter, crews continued to mop up, extinguishing hot embers, up to 200 feet on the inside of the containment line.

Today and tonight, firefighters, air resources and equipment will be in all areas of the fire area remaining vigilant and continuing to strengthen and secure the fire perimeter. Priorities will be to hold all containment lines and catch any spotting embers. Where possible, firefighters will implement waterbars and incorporate other erosion-control measures on the fireline in preparation for the rain coming on Monday. Initial attack fire personnel and equipment remain available to assist the Plumas National Forest in the event of any new fire starts in the area.

September 14, 2019 at 7:11 PM

Today fire resources focused on securing the northern flank of the fire, enhancing existing containment lines, mopping up and ensuring structure protection measures were in place. Fire crews were also concentrated along the southern flank on the 25N10 road today to clean up unburned pockets of vegetation and mopping up. A few spot fires crossed the line and firefighters caught and contained them. As fire behavior picked up today with warmer and drier conditions, firefighters on the eastern and western sides continued to strengthen lines. Suppression-repair equipment has moved to a staging area south of Antelope Lake in preparation for repair work next week. Initial attack resources remain available to assist the Plumas National Forest in the event of any new fire starts in the area.

Crews will be mopping up and securing the containment lines around the fire. On the southern flank, firefighters will continue mopping up after the yesterday’s firing operation and the spots that occurred today. Firefighters are diligently preparing the fire’s perimeter in anticipation of tomorrow’s critical fire weather.

September 14, 2019 at 6:28 PM

In Plumas County Evacuation Advisory remains for the Flouroy Bridge and Franks Valley area and Mandatory Evacuation Order remains for Murdock Crossing, Stoney Ridge and Antelope Lake areas. In Lassen County the Evacuation Warning remains along Hwy 395 from Laufman Grade to Wales Canyon and the Babcock Crossing area. Threat to private residences in the Genesee Valley and Ward Creek areas. Threat remains to the 5 Bears Hydroelectric project in Ward Creek and the Walker Mine Super-fund site. Crews are beginning suppression repair efforts in areas impacted by the fire.

September 14, 2019 at 5:29 PM

VLATs en route to the fire, one lead plane and three VLATs from Redding, one VLAT from McClellan.

September 14, 2019 at 5:13 PM

Two Super Scoopers inbound to the fire, they’ll scoop out of Lake Davis.

September 14, 2019 at 4:38 PM

Lead plane and Super Scooper requested to the Walker Fire.

September 14, 2019 at 9:47 AM

Last night fire crews completed the firing operation along the 25N10 Road along the southern flank and in pockets of unburned vegetation along the fire’s perimeter. Firefighters continued mopping up and securing the remaining containment lines around the fire’s perimeter. Structure protection remains a priority with crews using hose lays, water sprinklers, structure wrapping, and burn out operations around structures still threatened by fire within the interior pocket.

Today, crews will strengthen firelines, burning out small pockets of adjacent vegetation, and continue mop up, extinguishing hot embers along the containment lines. A suppression repair group will begin assessing needs and move in equipment in the northeastern corner near Antelope Lake. Initial attack crews will be available to respond to any new fire starts in the area.

A RED FLAG WARNING begins today in anticipation of high winds predicted to be 40 mph beginning tomorrow. Temperatures will be warmer today and tomorrow with highs in 80’s and humidities will be in the teens. These conditions will make Sunday a critical fire weather day. Following this wind event rain is expected on Monday throughout the area.

September 13, 2019 at 6:52 PM

Fire personnel are monitoring the changing weather conditions with increasing temperatures, lower humidity and wind conditions, anticipating how this will affect fire behavior and their suppression activities. In an effort to keep the fire within its current footprint if tested by the forecasted winds, firefighters are working diligently to strengthen containment lines by removing fuel between the fire and control lines. This will serve as a buffer and limit the potential of the fire extending beyond established lines.

Building on the successful firing operations from yesterday and last night, firefighters continued firing in places, or mopping up around the fire’s perimeter. Firing operations began on the 25N10 Road at Clover Dip on the southern flank and may continue into tonight as wind conditions permit. Fire crews expanded the buffer along the 176 Road to the 03 Road below Antelope Lake on the northern flank, reducing the risk of spot fires across the line from active fire in the large unburned interior.

Tonight, firefighters will monitor, strengthen and improve containment lines. Firing operations will continue to clean up any unburned fuel along control lines, followed by mopping up hot embers and making sure they are out. The warming and drying trend will continue throughout the weekend, along with increased winds. Sunday is forecasted to bring winds up to 40 mph. These conditions will create much more active fire behavior and more challenging conditions for firefighters on the line.

Crews are beginning suppression repair efforts in areas impacted by the fire.

September 13, 2019 at 7:08 AM

Last night firefighters monitored containment lines ensuring fire stayed within the perimeter, and added hose lays around yesterday’s small spot fire on the southeastern edge. Crews also prepared the containment line for tactical firing operations planned today near the 10 Road. Holding crews patrolled the fire and provided structure defense in threatened areas including Murdock Crossing and Frazier Cabin.

Today, firefighters will continue to strengthen and improve containment lines. Along the southern portion of the fire, near the 10 Road and south of Antelope Lake, firefighters plan to continue firing operations to reduce unburned fuel adjacent to containment lines. Crews and equipment will continue to mop up yesterday’s two acre spot fire on the southeast side near Clover Creek. Aerial resources will continue to support fire operations as visibility allows.

The warming and drying trend will continue throughout the weekend, with warmer temperatures, lower humidity and increased winds. Sunday is forecasted to bring winds up to 40 mph. These conditions will create much more active fire behavior and more challenging conditions for firefighters on the line.

September 12, 2019 at 5:24 PM

The Northern Sierra Air Quality Management District and the Plumas and Sierra County Public Health Agencies are issuing a joint Air Quality Health Advisory to notify the public of poor air quality conditions through at least September 16, 2019 resulting from the Walker Fire. At various times today (9/12) the air quality in Quincy and Taylorsville has reached particulate levels that are Unhealthy for Everyone (the red zone on the AQI chart). The greatest smoke impacts will be in the Indian Valley, but there will be impacts to communities further away such as Quincy and Chester/Lake Almanor Basin. As wind direction changes, potential smoke impacts to Portola and the Sierra Valley (as well as Lassen County and Washoe County) may occur. The air quality throughout these counties is dependent on atmospheric conditions and may change.

Exposure to elevated PM2.5 (fine particulate matter in smoke) concentrations can result in eye and throat irritation, headaches, nausea, shortness of breath, congestion, coughing, impaired lung function and chest pain, especially among sensitive individuals such as the elderly, children, people with asthma, people with heart or lung conditions, pregnant women and anyone who is exercising or working hard outdoors.

September 12, 2019 at 9:00 AM

Light winds and a stable air mass over the region will keep lingering smoke in areas around the fire today. Smoke will continue to move down drainages below the fire, including the Feather River canyon. Persistent heavy smoke is expected in areas near the fire, including Taylorsville and Quincy. Expect moderate smoke impacts, which could be heavier at times, to continue in the Paradise and Oroville areas due to the down-drainage flow of smoke.

September 12, 2019 at 7:32 AM

Increased fire behavior including torching and spotting in the southeastern end of the fire kept crews busy throughout the night. Firefighters continued to improve containment lines and added hose lays, making good progress in the Wheeler Ridge area, connecting established lines with unfinished portions. Structure defense is in place in threatened areas including Murdock Crossing, and crews were able to mop up additional areas in the Antelope Lake and eastern side of the fire. Fire Behavior Analysts are predicting increased fire activity today as fuels dry out after Monday’s rain event. On the northeast section of the fire, near Round Mountain, firefighters will continue to mop up using hose lays to create more fire line depth into the burned area. Dozers and firing tactics will be used where possible to improve containment lines on the eastern and southern fire boundary. Throughout the day, firefighters will work to strengthen and improve containment lines around the fire. Aerial resources will continue to support fire operations as visibility improves.

The new fire camp located at Four Corners is allowing firefighters quicker access into the eastern portions of the fire, but has also increased vehicle and equipment traffic in eastern Plumas County. We ask the public to be aware of this increased activity and to please drive accordingly.

Due to changing wind patterns, smoke was pushed into portions of central and eastern Plumas County yesterday. Today, winds are expected to be light from the southeast in the morning and changing to the southwest in the afternoon, conditions that will create another smoky day in the area.

September 11, 2019 at 7:07 PM

As fuels continue to dry towards critical levels, an increase in fire behavior to include running, torching, and spotting is expected.

Evacuation Advisory remains for the Flouroy Bridge and Franks Valley area,  Mandatory Evacuation Order remains for Murdock Crossing, Stoney Ridge and Antelope Lake areas.

In Lassen County the Evacuation Warning remains along Hwy 395 from Laufman Grade to Wales Canyon and the Babcock Crossing area. Threat remains to the 5 Bears Hydroelectric project in Ward Creek and the Walker Mine Super-fund site.

September 11, 2019 at 7:50 AM

A moment of silence was held at this morning’s briefing to recognize the victims of 9/11.

Additional firefighters and equipment, requested by the Incident Management Team are arriving to the fire, steadily increasing the total personnel since the origination. This increase in resources has been a crucial part of controlling the fire and increasing containment. During last night’s evening shift, progress was made constructing containment line utilizing dozers farther south of Doyle Crossing. Firefighters patrolled, increased the depth of mop up operations, and strengthened containment lines.

Moderate fire behavior is predicted today by the Incident Meteorologist and Fire Behavior Analyst. These conditions are allowing crews to aggressively construct additional direct hand and dozer lines along the fire’s edge. Significant improvement in the percentage of containment is anticipated today. Today’s focus will be extending the northeast dozer line continuing south in order to develop better containment on the east flank. Steep terrain in the northwest limits the ability to construct direct handline in some areas. Crews will construct handline along the fire perimeter where possible in conjunction with dozers and crews constructing indirect line to achieve containment on the western flank. In these areas of steep and difficult terrain, when conditions permit, firefighters may conduct firing operations to secure their constructed indirect lines.

Evacuations: The Plumas County Sheriff has reduced the Evacuation Level from Mandatory to Advisory in all areas except the Murdock Crossing and Stoney Ridge areas. Those residents that return to their homes should continue to monitor the situation and be prepared to evacuate the area if conditions worsen. For the most current information regarding evacuation levels, please contact the Plumas County Sheriff’s office at (530) 283-6300.

Forest Closures: Plumas National Forest has issued a Forest Order for the Mt. Hough and Beckwourth Ranger Districts. Please see Inciweb for full closure information and map of closure area.

Road Closures: Janesville Grade, Genesee Valley road at the Flournoy Bridge, Antelope Lake road from the Flournoy Bridge to Antelope Dam, and beginning at the Flournoy Bridge turnoff, the 111 Beckwourth-Genesee road is closed through the fire area.

September 10, 2019 at 7:50 PM

Today fire activity was minimal because of wetting rain which fell over the majority of the fire this morning. Cooler temperatures and higher humidity reduced fire activity. Fire crews seized the opportunity to strengthen existing fireline and construct new line closer to the fire’s edge, increasing the percentage of containment. A second fire camp has been established on the eastern side of the fire in order to position firefighters closer to the east side of the fire and to reduce heavy truck traffic on local roads. Firefighters will continue to take advantage of the current weather conditions by establishing dozer and hand lines directly along the fire perimeter. Firefighters were briefed on the cultural and historic values threatened by the fire and ways to mitigate damage to these important resources during suppression activities. Night crews will continue to strengthen and hold established containment line.

The Plumas County Sheriff has reduced the Evacuation Level from Mandatory to Advisory in all areas except the Murdock Crossing and Stoney areas. Those residents that return to their homes should continue to monitor the situation and be prepared to evacuate the area if conditions worsen. For the most current information regarding evacuation levels, please contact the Plumas County Sheriff’s office at (530) 283-6300.

September 10, 2019 at 7:10 PM

In Plumas County, evacuations have been downgraded to “advisory” for the Flournoy Bridge and the Franks Valley areas. The Murdock Crossing, Stoney Ridge, and the Antelope Lake areas remain in a “mandatory” evacuation status. In Lassen County, the evacuation “warning” along Highway 395 from Laufman Grade north to Wales Canyon remains in effect and can be accessed by residents only. Evacuation advisory of the Babcock Crossing area is still in effect. Numerous cultural and historic sites are impacted by the fire, these include but are not limited to: Pre-historic sites, historic buildings and Railroad Grades.

Fire continues to flank and back into and along areas unaffected by today’s precipitation. Threat continues for private residences in the Genesee Valley and Ward Creek areas. Threat to grazing lands and private in-holdings to the north east. Threat to federal timber lands will continue. The 5 Bears hydroelectric project in Ward creek is threatened. The Walker Mine Superfund site to the south of the fire could be threatened.

September 10, 2019 at 6:43 AM

Handcrews continued firing operations on the north side of the fire along County Road 176. The fire held on the north side and dozers continued building line to mitigate the spot fire on the northeast. Crews continued mop-up operations on the southeast flank of the fire north of Ingalls Peak utilizing aircraft and engine resources for water delivery. The west flank of the fire is holding along Wheeler Ridge. Containment lines held on Forest Road 25N42, Flournoy Road. Crews will continue structure defense, containment operations, and holding what’s in place through the night.

Evacuation Orders- Effective Sept. 9, 2019 11 a.m. The Lassen County Sheriff’s Office is reducing the Mandatory Evacuation Order for residents previously under a Mandatory Evacuation residing along Hwy 395 from the Thunder Mountain Road (Wales Canyon) to the Laufman Grade (Old Hwy 59), including the communities of Milford and Brockman Canyon.They have established a re-population plan and check stations at the primary roads in Milford will restrict access to Milford residents only. Security patrols will continue into the evening hours. The Evacuation Warning means residents should be prepared to evacuate the area.

Antelope Lake to the Plumas county line, the Genesee Valley road corridor, the Ward Creek area, and the Flournoy Bridge area remain under mandatory evacuation orders. An Evacuation Center is set up at Lassen County Fairgrounds, 195 Russell Ave. Susanville, CA 96130. Residents who need accommodations can proceed to Quincy and contact the Sheriff’s Office.

Road Closures- Janesville Grade, Genesee Valley road at the Flournoy Bridge, Antelope Lake road from the Flournoy Bridge to Antelope Dam, and beginning at the Flournoy Bridge turnoff, the 111 Beckwourth-Genesee road is closed through the fire area. Hwy 395 will remain open to through traffic.

September 9, 2019 at 8:23 PM

Fire activity moderated today with lower temperatures and increased relative humidity over the area. The fire is 44,307 acres and containment is 10%. Currently 825 personnel are assigned to the fire.

Handcrews continued firing operations on the north side of the fire along County Road 176. The fire held on the north side and dozers continued building line to mitigate the spot fire on the northeast. Crews continued mop-up operations on the southeast flank of the fire north of Ingalls Peak utilizing aircraft and engine resources for water delivery. The west flank of the fire is holding along Wheeler Ridge. Containment lines held on Forest Road 25N42, Flournoy Road. Crews will continue structure defense, containment operations, and holding what’s in place through the night.

Evacuation Orders- Effective Sept. 9, 2019 11 a.m. The Lassen County Sheriff’s Office reduced the Mandatory Evacuation Order to an Evacuation Warning for residents previously under a Mandatory Evacuation residing along Hwy 395 from the Thunder Mountain Road (Wales Canyon) to the Laufman Grade (Old Hwy 59), including the communities of Milford and Brockman Canyon. They have established a re-population plan and check stations at the primary roads in Milford will restrict access to Milford residents only. Security patrols will continue into the evening hours. The Evacuation Warning means residents should be prepared to evacuate the area. Mandatory Evacuation Orders remain in place for Antelope Lake to the Plumas county line, the Genesee Valley road corridor, the Ward Creek area, and the Flournoy Bridge area. An Evacuation Center is set up at Lassen County Fairgrounds.

Forest Closures-Plumas National Forest has issued a Forest Order for the Mt. Hough and Beckwourth Ranger Districts. Please see Inciweb for full closure information and map of closure area.

Road Closures- Janesville Grade, Genesee Valley road at the Flournoy Bridge, Antelope Lake road from the Flournoy Bridge to Antelope Dam, and beginning at the Flournoy Bridge turnoff, the 111 Beckwourth-Genesee road is closed through the fire area. Hwy 395 will remain open to through traffic.

September 9, 2019 at 4:25 PM

The Northern Sierra Air Quality Management District and the Plumas County Public Health Agency are issuing a joint Air Quality Health Advisory to notify the public of potentially poor air quality conditions at least through September 12, 2019 resulting from the Walker Fire and possibly other Northern California fires. Most of the smoke is expected to travel to the northeast, but at times it could settle into the Indian Valley and possibly reach the communities of Quincy, Chester and Portola. Conditions are expected to vary from Good throughout most of the county to Unhealthy near the fire and in the smoke plume, depending on wind direction and other factors.

The Lassen County Sheriff’s Office is reducing the Mandatory Evacuation Order for residents previously under a Mandatory Evacuation residing along Hwy 395 from the Thunder Mountain Road (Wales Canyon) to the Laufman Grade (Old Hwy 59), including the communities of Milford and Brockman Canyon.
They have established a re-population plan and check stations at the primary roads in Milford will restrict access to Milford residents only. Security patrols will continue into the evening hours. The Evacuation Warning means residents should be prepared to evacuate the area. Sign up for CodeRed at https://public.coderedweb.com/cne/en-US/BFB7CC4C6C0A.

September 9, 2019 at 7:53 AM

The fire activity decreased last night over the fire area. Containment line that is in place held. On the east side of the fire, dozer line was constructed around the northeastern leading edge of the fire near Round Mountain and Stoney Creek. Hose lays will be installed to reinforce the containment lines. Dozers continued progress constructing dozer line advancing north from Ingalls Peak. Crews constructed line directly along the southeast-east edge of the fire which held as well. Firefighters constructed fireline around the structures on the southwest edge of the fire to further protect the structures. The fire is staying in place at the 25N42 road.

Structure preparation is complete around structures to the west of Wheeler Peak drainage. Dozers and handcrews made good progress building fireline along the west side of the fire progressing north. Crews working around the fire will continue constructing containment line and holding what’s in place.

September 9, 2019 at 6:45 AM

IR map perimeter shows new acreage at 43,931 acres.

September 8, 2019 at 8:36 PM

As of 6:00 p.m., California Interagency Incident Management Team 4 has taken command of the Walker Fire. The fire is 38,049 acres and containment increased to 7%. Currently 825 personnel are assigned to the fire. A community meeting was held in Janesville this afternoon to provide fire information to the public.

After the fire made a significant run to the east overnight, crews took suppression action which successfully continued today. They constructed containment line directly along the fire’s edge around the head of the fire near Round Mountain and Stoney Creek and were able to stop the fire’s forward advancement to the east with fireline that held. Dozers continued their progress constructing dozer line around the south side of the fire to Ingalls Peak as crews constructed line directly along the southeast-east edge of the fire which held as well. Resources secured the fireline along the southwest edge of the fire near structures and line was constructed to the north of the Genesee Valley Road structures to further secure them. The fire is holding at the 25N42 road.

Structure preparation is complete on structures to the west of Wheeler Peak drainage. Opportunities for fireline construction on the west side of the fire have been identified and tonight crews plan to start constructing fireline in that area. Firefighters will continue to build on the progress made today, constructing containment line and holding what’s in place overnight.

Evacuation Orders- Mandatory Evacuation Orders remain in place for residents residing along Hwy 395 from the Thunder Mountain Road (Wales Canyon) to the Laufman Grade (Old Hwy 59), including the communities of Milford and Brockman Canyon. Antelope Lake to the Plumas county line, the Genesee Valley road corridor, the Ward Creek area, and the Flournoy Bridge area remain under mandatory evacuation orders. An Evacuation Center is set up at Lassen County Fairgrounds, 195 Russell Ave. Susanville, CA 96130. Residents who need accommodations can proceed to Quincy and contact the Sheriff’s Office. Sign up for CodeRed at https://public.coderedweb.com/cne/en-US/BFB7CC4C6C0A.

Road Closures- Janesville Grade, Genesee Valley road at the Flournoy Bridge, Antelope Lake road from the Flournoy Bridge to Antelope Dam, and beginning at the Flournoy Bridge turnoff, the 111 Beckwourth-Genesee road is closed through the fire area. Hwy 395 will remain open to through traffic.

September 8, 2019 at 7:25 PM

Critical fire weather is continuing in the area with erratic winds. There is a chance for showers and thunderstorms which will bring cooler temperatures and higher humidity levels on Tuesday. Dry and warmer conditions will return later in the week.

September 8, 2019 at 11:51 AM

The Walker Fire Incident Management Team will be holding a community meeting today, September 8th at 3:00pm. The meeting will be in the gym at Janesville Elementary School located at 464-555 Main St. in Janesville. Fire Management personnel will provide a fire update and answer questions on planned actions.

September 8, 2019 at 9:38 AM

As of this morning, the Walker Fire is 5% contained and 38,049 acres. A sustained 18 mile an hour wind impacted fire activity during the evening hours and the fire made a significant run spotting ahead of itself to the east in the Round Mountain area. Resources were sent to construct fireline ahead of the fire while other crews continued their progress constructing dozer line around the south side of the fire to Ingalls Peak. Resources patrolled and secured the fireline along the southwest edge of the fire and held the fire at the 25N42 road.

Today crews will continue securing the 25N42 road and patrol around structures on the southwest and southern edge of the fire looking for spot fires. Structure preparation will continue on structures west of the Wheeler Peak drainage, in the Antelope Lake area, as well as further east of the fire. More resources have arrived and will continue to construct containment line along the fire’s edge where possible, reinforce roads used for containment, as well as look for areas further out from the fire to construct fireline with the highest probability of successfully containing the fire. Crews will continue to be supported by aircraft as smoke and wind permit.

A type 1 Incident Management Team is ordered for this incident.

September 7, 2019 at 11:00 PM

MANDATORY EVACUATION ORDER

Lassen County Sheriff’s Office has issued a mandatory evacuation order for residents residing along Hwy 395 from the Thunder Mountain Road (Wales Canyon) to the Laufman Grade (Old Hwy 59). This includes the communities of Milford and Brockman Canyon. Hwy 395 will remain open to through traffic.

An Evacuation Center has been established at the Lassen County Fairgrounds 195 Russell Ave. Susanville, CA 96130.

September 7, 2019 at 9:07 PM

The fire’s progression slowed earlier in the day as a result of cloud cover and reduced fuel to the north as it entered the previously burned Antelope Fire area. The fire spread to the north up Wheeler’s Peak drainage and east around the Antelope Fire scar reaching a mile and a half of south of Murdock Crossing.

Aerial and ground resources working together made good progress on the Walker Fire today, taking advantage of the reduced fire activity. When smoke and wind conditions permitted, VLAT’s (Very Large Air Tankers) capable of dropping up to 10,000 gallons of retardant, slowed the fire’s spread to the northeast and on the western flank in the Wheeler Peak drainage. Aircraft support gave crews working in conjunction with dozers time to construct fireline along the southern edge of the fire which crews and dozers will continue advancing around the fire this evening. Two Super Scooper aircraft dropped water and controlled two spot fires out in front of the main fire to the east. Resources continued patrolling and secured the fireline along the southwest edge of the fire, removing the threat to structures. Tonight, crews will continue securing the 25N42 road while other night shift resources look for opportunities to construct containment line along the fire’s edge where possible as well as areas further out from the fire with the highest probability of successfully containing the fire.

Evacuation Orders- Plumas County Sheriff’s Office, Plumas County Office of Emergency Services (OES) in conjunction with Lassen County Sheriff’s Office and Lassen County OES have ordered mandatory evacuations of Antelope Lake to the Plumas county line. Mandatory evacuations for the Genesee Valley road corridor, the Ward Creek area, and the Flournoy Bridge area are still in place, (issued through CodeRED). Residents who need accommodations should proceed to the Quincy area and contact the Sheriff’s Office.

Road Closures- Janesville Grade is now closed. Genesee Valley road is closed at the Flournoy Bridge. Antelope Lake road is also closed from the Flournoy Bridge to Antelope Dam. At the Flournoy Bridge turnoff, the 111 Beckwourth-Genesee road is closed through the fire area.

It is recommended that any public in an area potentially affected by the fire, continue to monitor fire information, have an evacuation plan, and sign up for the CodeRED emergency messaging system at: https://public.coderedweb.com/cne/en-US/BFB7CC4C6C0A

Breezy conditions along the ridgetop are expected as a weak weather system passes through this evening. Forecasted cloud cover and cooler temperatures are expected to raise the relative humidity tonight which will contribute to a decrease in fire activity.

September 7, 2019 at 7:27 PM

24,034 acres grass and timber, 5% contained. Continued long and short range spotting. Structures are threatened in Genesee Valley and Ward Creek areas. Mandatory evacuations in place along the Antelope Lake Rd. from Heart K Ranch to Babcock Meadows. Evacuation advisory has been issued for the Babcock Crossing area. Threat to 5 Bears Hydroelectric project in Ward Creek and to the Walker Mine Superfund site.

September 7, 2019 at 4:38 PM

No new evacuations have been ordered. The fire’s progression slowed earlier today as a result of the cloud cover and reduced fuel to the north as it entered the previously burned Antelope Fire area. It is moving in a north and easterly direction as it moves around the Antelope burn scar. With clouds lifting winds are increasing. If you are in an area potentially affected by the fire, continue to monitor fire information.

September 7, 2019 at 11:00 AM

New Evacuation Orders- Plumas County Sheriff’s Office, Plumas County Office of Emergency Services (OES) in conjunction with Lassen County Sheriff’s Office and Lassen County OES have ordered mandatory evacuations of Antelope Lake to the Plumas county line. Mandatory evacuations for the Genesee Valley road corridor, the Ward Creek area, and the Flournoy Bridge area are still in place, (issued through CodeRED). Residents who need accommodations should proceed to the Quincy area and contact the Sheriff’s Office.

Road Closures- Janesville Grade is now closed. Genesee Valley road is closed at the Flournoy Bridge. Antelope Lake road is also closed from the Flournoy Bridge to Antelope Dam.

September 7, 2019 at 9:02 AM

Structures are threatened in Genesee Valley and Ward Creek areas. Mandatory evacuations in place along the Antelope Lake Rd. from Heart K Ranch to Babcock Meadows. Evacuation advisory has been issued for the Babcock Crossing area. Threat to 5 Bears Hydroelectric project in Ward Creek.

The Plumas County Sherriff’s Office ordered mandatory evacuations for the Genesee Valley road corridor, the Ward Creek area, and the Flournoy Bridge area (through CodeRED). Residents who need accommodations should proceed to the Quincy area and contact the Sheriff’s Office. In addition, the Genesee Valley road is closed at the Flournoy Bridge. Antelope road is also closed from the Flournoy Bridge to Antelope Dam.

Last night the fire activity decreased, slowly backing down towards the 25N42 road where firefighters were able to engage and hold the fire east of the 25N42 road. The fire progressed to the northeast to area of Babcock Peak. Today more ground and air resources, including VLATs (Very Large Air Tankers), will aid in the fire suppression effort. Crews will be constructing containment line along the edge of the fire where possible and continue to secure the southwestern portion of the fire. Structure preparation will occur in the Murdock Crossing area. Aerial resources will be used to slow fire’s forward progression while ground crews look for opportunities to contain the fire to the northeast. No structures have been lost.

Forecasted cloud cover and cooler temperatures are expected to raise the relative humidity today, however, a predicted increase in southwest winds combined with drier fuels may increase fire activity.

September 6, 2019 at 9:56 PM

The Walker Fire is burning on the Plumas National Forest approximately 11 miles east of the community of Taylorsville, California. The fire is 0% contained and approximately 17,912 acres.

The Plumas County Sherriff’s Office ordered mandatory evacuations for the Genesee Valley road corridor, the Ward Creek area, and the Flournoy Bridge area (through CodeRED). Residents who need accommodations should proceed to the Quincy area and contact the Sheriff’s Office. In addition, the Genesee Valley road is closed at the Flournoy Bridge. Antelope road is also closed from the Flournoy Bridge to Antelope Dam.

Fire activity increased substantially due to forecasted winds over the fire area. The fire progressed to the northeast, crossing Last Chance Creek through Elephants Playground in the direction of Babcock Peak. Crews were able to hold the fire east of the 25N42 road. Suppression action was taken on spot fires that ignited near and just north of the 172 road, east of Flournoy Bridge. Crews continued structure preparation and were successful in structure defense, containing the spot fires that ignited around them. No structures have been lost. Tonight, fire resources will continue to suppress the fire near structures and continue constructing firelines.

Tonight, poor humidity and predicted southwest winds are expected to contribute to increased fire activity.

September 6, 2019 at 7:01 PM

The fire is estimated at 8,000 acres. More accurate mapping will occur overnight.

September 6, 2019 at 3:28 PM

The fire is still moving to the northeast. A new voluntary evacuation has been ordered for the structures below Forest Road 26N11. Residents have been notified. No other evacuations have been issued or changed.

September 6, 2019 at 12:28 PM

The #WalkerFire is exhibiting extreme fire behavior.

September 6, 2019 at 11:15 AM

The Northern Sierra Air Quality Management District and the Plumas County Public Health Agency are issuing a joint Air Quality Health Advisory to notify the public of potentially poor air quality conditions at least through September 9, 2019 resulting from the Walker Fire and possibly other Northern California fires. Most of the smoke is expected to travel to the northeast, but at times it could settle into the Indian Valley and possibly reach the communities of Quincy, Lake Almanor and Portola. Conditions are expected to vary from Good throughout most of the county to Unhealthy near the fire and in the smoke plume, depending on wind direction and other factors.

September 6, 2019 at 9:08 AM

The Walker Fire is burning on the Plumas National Forest approximately 11 miles east of the community of Taylorsville, California. It is currently 2000 acres and 0% contained. California Interagency Incident Management Team 14 took command of the fire at 6 a.m. on September 6, 2019.

Additional mandatory evacuations were ordered yesterday as winds pushed the Walker Fire primarily to the east/southeast. These evacuation have been issued by the Plumas County Sherriff’s Office (through the Code Red system) for the Genesee Valley Road Corridor as well in the Ward Creek area, and the Flournoy Bridge area due to the rapid rate of spread of the Walker Fire and the unpredictable fire behavior. Residents in need of accommodations should proceed to the Quincy area and may contact the Sheriff’s Office if assistance is needed. In addition, the Genesee Valley Road is currently closed at the Flournoy Bridge.

As of yesterday, the fire was well established in the Clearwater Creek drainage and was moving upslope (to the northeast) out of the drainage. The highest priority for crews overnight was to assess and clear around structures on the western flank of the fire along the Genesee Valley Road. The fire remains east of the Forest Road 25N42.Today, crews will continue to prioritize suppressing the fire near the structures.

Gusty, erratic winds are expected to increase fire behavior by this afternoon, although humidity recoveries were fairly good overnight. The forecast currently shows a drying trend with temperatures moderating. Windier conditions expected afternoon into the evening. Possibility of thunderstorms returns next week.

September 6, 2019 at 7:59 AM

Fire behavior was moderate overnight with flanking and torching. No recorded fire history in the area.

Structures are threatened in Genesee Valley and Ward Creek areas. Mandatory evacuations in place along the Antelope Lake Rd. from Heart K Ranch to Babcock Meadows. Threat to 5 Bears Hydroelectric project in Ward Creek. Thunderstorms have cleared out of the area, but dry, windy conditions are expected to prevail into the afternoon.

September 5, 2019 at 10:30 PM

Downdraft winds from late afternoon thunderstorms caused spotting ahead of the fire today. This has pushed the fire across the Beckwourth Genesee Road. It is spreading in a north/northeast direction towards Babcock Crossing and is burning in the rugged Elephant’s Playground area. Size is approximately 1800+ acres.

According to the Plumas County Sheriff’s Office, a mandatory evacuation order has been issued for the Genesee Valley Road Corridor, as well as Ward Creek Road, due to the rapid rate of spread and the unpredictable fire behavior. Residents in need of accommodations should proceed to the Quincy area and contact the Sheriff’s Office if assistance is needed. Also threat to a Hydroelectric project in Ward Creek.

September 5, 2019 at 3:05 PM

Firefighters are making good progress on the fire! We do have a small spot from yesterday that is being picked up currently. The Genesee Beckwourth Road is now closed and is signed at both ends. We’re flying the fire this afternoon and will have some good updated acres soon. In addition, we’ll be having some folks from a Type 2 Team coming to help augment our staffing; we’ll be transitioning with them later this afternoon.

September 5, 2019 at 8:14 AM

850 acres grass and timber, 5% contained. Moderate fire behavior overnight due to increased humidity. Structures are threatened with evacuation warnings in place

September 5, 2019 at 7:50 AM

This morning’s picture was very peaceful as the daily (typical) inversion kept a lid on things overnight. Type 1 handcrews (Hotshots) worked through the night on the east side of the fire while engines stood watch along the Beckwourth-Genesee Road.

Other firefighters scouted areas to build dozer lines today. The fire exhibited slow backing behavior (down the hill) which is typical of a fire at night. Widespread thunderstorms are expected again today which includes erratic winds and isolated showers. More information to follow shortly.

September 4, 2019 at 7:12 PM

From our friends at the Plumas National Forest via Facebook:

The fire has chewed up quite a lot of acres since earlier this afternoon. Using ground reference points we estimate a rough perimeter of 750 acres. There have been no structure losses reported as of this time.

5:30 pm Update: Eyes in the sky indicate we have not picked up any new fire starts as a result of lightning on our east side and the thunder cells over the fire have moved on, thank goodness. Thunder cells can produce strong downdraft winds which can impact a fire, causing it to burn erratically because the wind is coming from different directions. Plumas County Sheriff’s Office indicates six residences have been evacuated. Will share acre and other updates when they become available.

4:30 pm Update: Aircraft and ground resources have been pounding the fire and new resources are arriving. At this point of initial attack, it’s tough to get new numbers but we’ll provide those when we are able. We are picking up lightning strikes on the eastern part of the forest so our “eyes in the sky” are keeping watch on those as well.

3:30 pm Update: Fire is moving up the ridge (south of Genesee Valley) in heavy timber and is 100 acres currently. Incoming storms/erratic winds are influencing the burn; fire is spotting. Evacuations along Beckwourth Genesee Road in the vicinity of Flourney Bridge. Precautionary evacuation notificationhas been given to Ward Creek residents, nearby.

Firefighters are responding to a fire (approximately 3-5 acres +/-) south of Flournoy Bridge/Genesee Valley (T25N, R12E, Sec.6). Aircraft, engines and crews are responding. #PlumasNF4

September 4, 2019 at 6:48 PM

200 acres grass and timber, with a continued rapid rate of spread and short range spotting observed.

Structures are threatened with voluntary evacuations in place for the fire area.