Slinkard Fire Continues to Grow, Evacuations in Place
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TOPAZ, Calif. - The Slinkard Fire, located in the Slinkard Valley, west of Topaz in Mono County, California continues to grow today influenced by wind.
The fire has crossed Hwy 89 and is moving east towards Topaz. Hwy 395 is closed and Topaz has been evacuated north of Hwy 89 to the Nevada state line. Fire crews are putting in dozer line along the eastern edge of Topaz and numerous engines are in place for structure protection.
The fire is estimated to be 1,500 acres with 0% containment. The fire is burning in cheat grass, sagebrush and pinyon/juniper.
For public safety, Hwy 89 remains closed between Hwy 395 and Hwy 4 (at Monitor Pass). Hwy 395 is closed from the junction of State Route 182 in Bridgeport to the Nevada state line.
Unsettled weather will remain a concern for today, with thunderstorm activity and winds in the forecast.
There are five crews, numerous engines, three helicopters are support staff assigned to the fire. A Type 3 Team has been ordered and is en route. A Type 1 Team is being ordered. This appears to be a lightning-caused fire.
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.