(9:26 a.m. PDT September 14, 2019)
The South Fire has burned 4,094 acres on the Shasta-Trinity National Forest and state protected lands since it started from a lightning strike on September 5, 28 miles west of Red Bluff, California. (see map below)
It is burning in a very remote area with difficult access. About 270 firefighters are working out of a spike camp on a landing strip north of the fire in order to reduce travel times, but from there they still have an hour drive to get to their work assignments each day.
Below is information from the Incident Management Team on Friday:
“Firing operations on the northwest section of the fire were successful and will continue as weather permits. The fire south of Buck Camp and Hamilton Gultz had moderate fire activity and the southeast portion of the fire continues to hold within the containment lines. Fire in the Yolla-Bolly Wilderness continues to burn in a north / northwest direction towards the Syd Cabin Glade area.
“Firefighters will continue to construct direct fireline, which is the closest proximity to the fire, where they can and use natural barriers. Roads are being cleared of brush for easier access to the fire for the firefighters. Structure protection continues within and around the fire area.
“The main objective is to fully suppress the fire while providing for firefighter and public safety which is the highest priority. Firefighters continue to protect private and Forest Service infrastructure, along with natural and cultural resources, by limiting fire spread south of Cottonwood Creek and north of Nuisance Ridge and Ball Rock Road.”
I wish the story included the different departments that make up the 270 Firefighters. I know my Son was flown into that camp and being that I have no way to communicate with him, t would be great to see it mentioned.
Reminds me of the old days! And maybe a glimpse into future days too?