Sierra National Forest reports significant progress in firefighting efforts, with containment lines strengthened across all perimeters despite challenging conditions. (Facebook/U.S. Forest Service)
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As of Friday morning, the Basin Fire has expanded to 14,020 acres with containment now at 46%, a significant increase from 26% reported on Wednesday.
Sierra National Forest officials reported current firefighting efforts include:
- Personnel: 1,340 firefighters, supported by 28 crews, 93 engines, and 13 helicopters.
- Eastern Perimeter: The fire remains within constructed lines, but there is potential for burning material to roll out. Monitoring continues via aircraft and ground crews.
- Southern Perimeter: Containment lines are secure along the South Fork of the Kings River, under ongoing surveillance.
- Western Perimeter: Crews have encircled the fire using dozer lines and retardant, actively fortifying this area.
- Northern Perimeter: Firefighters are focusing efforts north of Rodgers Ridge, constructing fire lines in challenging terrain. Adjacent dry brush, exacerbated by recent heat waves, pose increased ignition risks. Contingency lines, reinforced by dozers and other machinery, are being established north of the fire perimeter as precautionary measures.
Related Story: More Than 1,000 Personnel Now Fighting the Fresno County Basin Fire, ...
Evacuations, Closures, and Air Quality
Mandatory evacuation orders are in place for Fresno County zones K29, K30, K31, K40, K41, and K166. Evacuation warnings are in effect for zones K61 and K76. For the Fresno County Evacuation map, visit: Fresno County Evacuation Map.
Fire restrictions prohibit campfires, welding, and smoking in non-developed campsites. For details, visit Sierra National Forest Alerts.
Temporary partial forest closure order for the Basin Fire area is in effect until July 30. The public is urged to respect closure signs and avoid the area to prevent accidents and interference with firefighting efforts. For the forest order and area map, visit the Sierra National Forest website.
The following campgrounds are closed due to the fire: Bear Wallow, Black Rock, Gravel Flat Group, Kirch Flat, Kirch Flat Group, Oak Flat, Ross Crossing, and Sawmill Flat. Visitors are advised to stay out of the area.
Road closure signs have been placed on the fire perimeter. The public should review road closures before traveling, as no one will be allowed to enter zones under evacuation warnings. For emergency resources, visit Fresno County Emergency.
For air quality updates and health precautions, visit AirNow.
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