A lightning-sparked wildfire burning in the Sierra National Forest has grown to 34,138 acres as of Saturday morning, with containment at 14%, officials said.

The Garnet Fire, which began Aug. 24, is being battled by 1,984 personnel. Cooler weather and strong overnight humidity recovery gave firefighters an opportunity Saturday to push forward with containment efforts.

Evacuation Orders, Warnings

According to CalFire, evacuation orders have been issued for zones K27, K28, K30, K31, K32A, and K40 due to an immediate threat to life, and residents are required to leave the area.

Evacuation warnings are in place for zones K29, K32B, K41, K61A, K74, K85, K160, and K166where those needing extra time, including people with pets and livestock, are urged to evacuate now.

Crews are working along Sycamore Ridge Road to prevent the blaze from spreading south and west, while also preparing hose and water systems along planned lines. Firefighters remain challenged by steep drainages east of Dinkey Creek.

Along McKinley Grove Road, crews are clearing vegetation and carrying out firing operations to weaken the blaze before it reaches holding features. Hotshot crews are also constructing lines on the eastern flank near Garlic Spur, supported by dozers.

Officials said residents may see another large pyrocumulus cloud form in the afternoon as fire activity increases.

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