Monterey County: A wildfire in California’s Big Sur region has more than doubled in size overnight, prompting evacuations as firefighters continue battling a separate major blaze in the area.
The Plaskett Fire, which began on August 25, had burned more than 5,900 acres (2,400 hectares) in Monterey County by August 28, according to Cal Fire. The fire remained uncontained, while its cause was still under investigation.
Fire crews have deployed helicopters and air tankers to attack the flames from the air, using targeted water drops. However, the fire’s remote location, steep terrain and limited road access have made it difficult for ground crews to reach and contain the blaze.
Further north, the Timber Fire has burned more than 24,000 acres (9,700 hectares) and was around 21 percent contained. The fire breached some containment lines, while smoke and cloud cover prevented authorities from accurately assessing its overnight spread.
The two wildfires have also led to partial closures of Highway 1, a major scenic coastal route connecting Los Angeles and San Francisco through the Big Sur area. The rapidly spreading fires come as firefighters face challenging conditions across parts of California, with emergency crews working to protect nearby communities and contain the advancing flames.
The latest fires add to a challenging wildfire season in California, with firefighters working across difficult terrain to protect communities and strengthen containment lines.
In Big Sur, crews continue to battle the fast-growing Plaskett Fire while authorities monitor evacuation zones and changing conditions. Residents in affected areas have been urged to follow evacuation orders and stay informed as firefighting operations continue.
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