California’s Biscar Fire has grown to approximately 40,000 acres as of Tuesday morning after warm temperatures and strong winds pushed the wildfire east across Highway 395 and into Nevada, the Bureau of Land Management reported.

The fire, which started Saturday about 40 miles northeast of Susanville, remains under investigation. It is currently 5% contained, with about 400 personnel assigned to the incident.

The fire grew by roughly 10,000 acres Monday, primarily to the south and east. Several large air tankers were used overnight to slow the fire’s eastern spread, while crews, engines and dozers continue working along the fire’s edge to limit further growth.

California Incident Management Team 3 began taking over management of the fire Tuesday morning..

Thunderstorms Remain a Concern, Evacuations in Place

Fire officials said thunderstorms are expected to remain a concern through Wednesday, bringing the possibility of scattered rain, strong winds and lightning.

Outflow winds from storms could create the risk of flare-ups, while dry lightning outside rainfall areas could spark additional fires.

Evacuation orders have been issued for areas identified as LAS-543, LAS-551-A, LAS-551-B, LAS-551-C and LAS-553. Officials said evacuation orders are issued when there is an immediate threat to life and require residents to leave immediately. The affected areas are closed to public access.

Evacuation warnings are in place for LAS-54, LAS-545 and LAS-555. Officials said residents who need additional time to evacuate, including those with pets or livestock, should leave now.

Residents can view an interactive evacuation map through Genasys Protect.

Shelter information is available through the Lassen County Sheriff’s Office at (530) 254-4500.

Expect Traffic Delays

Highway 395 has reopened to alternating one-way controlled traffic. Officials urged drivers to use caution because firefighters may be working near roadways.

The fire is burning through grass and sagebrush, with heavier fuels in riparian areas and along timbered slopes.

The Bureau of Land Management announced seasonal fire restrictions effective July 15 for BLM-managed public lands in Lassen, Modoc, Plumas, Sierra, Siskiyou and Shasta counties in California, as well as Washoe County, Nevada.

The restrictions are in addition to statewide fire prevention orders and prohibit campfires and barbecues except within established campfire rings and barbecue grills at certain designated recreation sites.

Smoke impacts from the Biscar Fire can be monitored through AirNow’s fire and smoke map. Officials encouraged residents to check air quality conditions and take precautions to protect their health.

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