California: Big Cliff Fire
Updated: August 9 at 11:05 a.m.
California
Big Cliff Fire
Where: Klamath National Forest, three miles southeast of Idlewild Campground
Counties: Siskiyou
Size: 906 acres
Containment: 26%
Cause: Under investigation
Current Situation: Working through increasing temperatures and occasional wind gusts up to 20 mph, fire crews were able to keep the Big Cliff Fire within established control lines yesterday. Deeper in from the perimeter, the fire crept through areas of unconsumed fuels, generating minimal smoke and connecting with other pockets of vegetation near the Creole Belle Gulch and Blake’s Fork areas as it was planned to do. The fuel in those areas is not expected to provide enough energy for the fire to make big runs.
Crews today will focus on building and strengthening control lines around all sides of the fire, especially around the eastern flank toward South Russian Creek. Air resources are available to assist ground crews with suppression support, reconnaissance, and potential medical emergencies.
The California Interagency Incident Management Team 4 will transfer command of the Orleans Complex to the local Klamath type 3 team at 6 p.m Saturday, August 9.
Weather: Gusting afternoon winds, high temperatures, and poor overnight humidity recoveries are forecasted through the weekend, returning to more normal temperatures and wind patterns early next week. High temperatures and lower humidity will create drier fuels. An extreme heat watch has been issued for Sunday and Monday by the National Weather Service.
Closures & Evacuations: The Siskiyou County Sheriff's office has issued evacuation warnings for the Butler and Big Cliff Fires. Find current orders here, which could change at any time.
The Pacific Crest Trail remains closed between Carter Summit (mile 1581.5) to Etna Summit (mile 1601.2) due to the Big Cliff Fire.
An official forest closure around the Big Cliff Fire went into effect on August 6. Hikers are not permitted and will be asked to leave all closed areas. A map of the closure can be found at the Klamath National Forest website.
Where to get more information: