Dexter Fire Update July 16
Mandatory evacuations for campers have been implemented in the Bald Mountain area. The Big Springs and Bald Mountain Springs Campgrounds have been evacuated and are currently closed. Roads in the immediate vicinity are also closed to the public: North of the Owens River Rd. (2S07), east of Highway 395, west of Forest Rd. 1S17, and south of Highway 120.
July 16, 2021 — Yesterday, afternoon winds continued to spread the fire to the northeast within the planned fire perimeter, while crews strengthened and monitored the northern and southern flanks. Mop up (extinguishing the smoldering area along the fireline) has begun in both of those areas. The fire is still active on the northeast edge and today’s priority is to continue strategic firing to keep the fire within the perimeter. Some aircraft has been diverted due to regional priorities for other fire starts, but will still be available to assist with slowing fire spread.
Surface fuels include sage in the lower elevations, Jeffrey Pine at mid elevations, and Lodgepole Pine and mixed conifer in higher areas. Fire behavior includes torching and short to moderate duration crown fire during the heat of the burn period, but low to moderate spread most of the day and evenings. Spotfires are spreading up to 1/2 mile but are being managed quickly. The majority of threat to structures to the south along Owens River has been mitigated. Crews will continue to prepare for strategic burning this evening from the Pilot Springs Rd. to the west.
The threat of thunderstorms may be less today, giving firefighters a window to complete burning and secure the fireline. However, a hot and dry airmass will move into the area, reinforcing fuel receptivity. Smoke may continue to impact the Mammoth Lakes area from the Dexter Fire (east) and the River Fire (Mariposa—west).
Mandatory evacuations for campers have been implemented in the Bald Mountain area. The Big Springs and Bald Mountain Springs Campgrounds have been evacuated and are currently closed. Roads in the immediate vicinity are also closed to the public: North of the Owens River Rd. (2S07), east of Highway 395, west of Forest Rd. 1S17, and south of Highway 120.
Fire Restrictions remain in effect for the Inyo National Forest and Bishop Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Campfires are allowed only in developed campgrounds and recreation sites. A portable stove or lantern using gas, jellied petroleum or pressurized liquid fuel may be used with a valid wilderness or California Campfire Permit in dispersed areas. Smoking is only allowed within an enclosed vehicle, building, a developed recreation site, or in an area at least three feet in diameter cleared of flammable material.
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Incident Start Date: July 12, 2021 Cause: Lightning Acreage: 2,362 Containment: 15%
Hand Crews: 6 Engines: 30 Helicopters: 4 Air Tankers: 2 Dozers: 3 Water Tenders: 2
Total Personnel: 308