Metz Fire. Photo via NPS.The Metz Fire was reported mid-afternoon on Sunday southeast of Soledad, California and within about six hours was mapped by CAL FIRE at 3,878 acres. At that point the spread slowed and it was still reported at the same size the next morning at 8:15 a.m. PDT. One of our readers told us there were seven air tankers assigned.
The fire is about three miles southwest of Pinnacles National Park.
Map of the Metz Fire, May 23, 2016. CAL FIRE.
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After working full time in wildland fire for 33 years, he continues to learn, and strives to be a Student of Fire.
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One thought on “California: Metz Fire burns thousands of acres near Soledad”
Interesting color of dark smoke? The green patches are vineyards, as in wine. The Gabilan Range is noted for its 15 m.p.h. plus afternoon winds (start about 1100 hours and blows until after sunset (heat sink winds).
Poor access and flashey fuels, mixture of grass and chaparral. Air tankers two Cal Fire S2T’s each from Paso Robles, Hollister and Columbia. Santa Maria sent LAT Tanker 140. Porterville provided a helitanker. Thanks to the staff at Pinnacles N.P. for the great picture. And of course to W.T. for the coverage.
Interesting color of dark smoke? The green patches are vineyards, as in wine. The Gabilan Range is noted for its 15 m.p.h. plus afternoon winds (start about 1100 hours and blows until after sunset (heat sink winds).
Poor access and flashey fuels, mixture of grass and chaparral. Air tankers two Cal Fire S2T’s each from Paso Robles, Hollister and Columbia. Santa Maria sent LAT Tanker 140. Porterville provided a helitanker. Thanks to the staff at Pinnacles N.P. for the great picture. And of course to W.T. for the coverage.