Timber Fire in California's Big Sur surges over weekend, evacuations expanded
The Timber Fire burning in California's Big Sur significantly grew over the weekend, prompting expanded evacuation orders and warnings.
According to Cal Fire, 12,616 acres have burned as of Monday morning, up from 9,665 acres on Sunday morning and 7,591 acres on Saturday morning. Containment is 25%.
"On the northern and eastern portions of the fire where increased activity recently occurred, the fire has merged, contributing to the increase of acreage into the Ventana Wilderness," officials said in a statement.
Firefighters said high clouds, slightly lower temperatures and a "marginally" deeper marine layer are expected Monday, which could lead to slightly less fire activity.
As of Monday, evacuation orders are in effect for the following zones:
• MRY-F015-C
• MRY-D082
• MRY-D090
• MRY-D089
• MRY-D091
• MRY-F031-A
• MRY-F028-B
Evacuation warnings are in effect for the following areas:
• MRY-F015-B
• MRY-D078
• MRY-D084
• MRY-D085
• MRY-D086
• MRY-D088
• MRY-F031-B
• MRY-F030-A
• MRY-F030-B
• MRY-F032-A
• MRY-F032-B
Up-to-date information on evacuations can be found at alertmry.org/alerts.
Cal Fire said at least 661 structures are threatened. No injuries have been reported.
According to officials, 1,368 personnel have been assigned to battle the Timber Fire, including 81 engines, 15 water tenders and 14 helicopters.
The fire was first reported on the night of August 8 in the Los Padres National Forest, southeast of Loma Vista. A cause has not been determined.
