The Timber Fire burning along California’s rugged Big Sur coast grew to 2,000 acres overnight with 5% containment, prompting continued evacuations, state park closures and a major deployment of firefighting resources.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
Firefighters are battling a fast-moving wildfire along California’s Big Sur coastline after the Timber Fire expanded to 2,000 acres overnight, threatening structures and forcing evacuations across the region.
The blaze was 5% contained as of Tuesday, according to an update from Cal Fire.
The fire began Saturday near the remote Loma Vista area and has spread through steep, rugged terrain that has complicated access for firefighters and prompted requests for additional personnel and equipment.
Approximately 500 firefighters and other emergency personnel have now been assigned to the incident.
Crews have positioned resources around nearby homes while also working to prevent the fire from crossing the Pacific Coast Highway.
Multiple structures remain threatened, and evacuation orders and warnings continue for several surrounding communities.
Officials have also closed all state parks in the Big Sur region as emergency crews work to contain the blaze and keep roads available for firefighting operations.
The Monterey County Sheriff’s Department urged residents and visitors to avoid the affected area in a Facebook post Monday.
“We are respectfully asking the public to stay out of the area,” the department said. “Roadways must remain clear so first responders can work safely and effectively. Unnecessary traffic and sightseeing in the fire zone create hazards for emergency crews and slow down critical operations.”
Big Sur stretches along California’s central coast and is known for its steep ocean cliffs, state parks and the iconic Bixby Bridge.
Wildfires have repeatedly affected the area.
In 2020, the Dolan Fire burned for more than four months and scorched more than 128,000 acres.
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