Sierra National Forest Partially Closed Due to Growing Basin Fire Threat

A temporary partial closure to Sierra National Forest has been extended until July 30th due to the increasing threat posed by the Basin Fire, which was ignited by lightning earlier this week.

Officials reported that the Basin Fire has grown significantly in the past few days, with the fire now encompassing a staggering 7,462 acres of land. Despite the efforts of at least 430 personnel, the blaze remains uncontained.

Firefighting Efforts

Forest rangers have highlighted the intensified risks associated with the extensive operations required to manage and contain the fire as the primary reason for the closure. The safety of the public and firefighting personnel is the top priority in this challenging situation.

Fire Details

The fire is burning primarily in dry, dense grass within the Rough Fire scar from 2015. Positioned at an elevation of 2000-4500 feet, it is situated northeast of Pine Flat Lake, west of the Spanish Mountain, south of Black Rock Road and north of the South Fork of the Kings River.

Evacuation and Containment Status

Evacuation orders for Fresno County zones K29, K30, K31, and K40 remain in effect. The Kirch Flat Campground was evacuated earlier in the week as a precautionary measure.

In addition to the Basin Fire, the Fresno Lightning Complex Fire consists of multiple blazes. The Flash/Bolt Fire at Palomino and Elwood Road in the Wonder Valley Area is the largest, covering 10,375 acres with containment at 41%. The Hog Fire at Watts Valley and Hog Mt. Rd is 93% contained, burning 293 acres. The Strike Fire, with one acre burned, has been successfully contained.

Challenges Ahead

Firefighting crews continue to strengthen containment lines and extinguish hot spots to maintain control over the ongoing blazes. However, with an anticipated increase in temperatures and low humidity, the risk of heightened fire activity remains a concern through the weekend. Evacuation orders have been lifted in specific areas, providing some relief to affected residents.