Plaskett Fire
- 79% Contained
- 29,942 Acres
- 1 County: Monterey
08/26/2026 11:01 AM
09/11/2026 10:32 AM
Under Investigation
USFS - Los Padres National Forest
CIIMT 7
Forest Road 23S10, east of Los Burros Road, Plaskett
https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/calpf-plaskett-fire
Status reports
Evacuations in Progress
Evacuation Orders
Immediate threat to life. This is a lawful order to LEAVE NOW. The area is lawfully closed to public access.
Evacuation Orders have been issued for the following areas:
- FHL-G011
- FHL-G012-B
- FHL-G014
- MRY-G016
- FHL-G017
- FHL-G018
- FHL-G023
- MRY-F034
- MRY-F035
- MRY-F036
- MRY-F037-B
- MRY-F038-B
Evacuation Warnings
Potential threat to life and/or property. Those who require additional time to evacuate, and those with pets and livestock should leave now.
Evacuation Warnings have been issued for the following areas:
- FHL-G012-A
- FHL-G012-C
- FHL-G015
- FHL-G019
- FHL-G026
- MRY-F033
- MRY-F037-A
- MRY-F038-A
- MRY-F039
Incident Updates
Lyle Pope, Resource Unit Leader with California Interagency Incident Management Team 7 provides an operational overview of the battle to contain the Plaskett Fire.
VIDEO: Operations Update 9.11.2026
Containment continues to increase as crews secure and strengthen established control lines on the Plaskett Fire. Operations remain focused on mop-up, patrol, extinguishing remaining heat, and improving perimeter security. Crews continue working areas of previous fire activity while monitoring for any heat capable of threatening established control features.
Aviation and uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) remain available to support reconnaissance, heat detection, and suppression needs as conditions warrant.
Steep terrain and limited access continue to influence suppression tactics in portions of the incident.
The Monterey County Sheriff's Office has released this message:
Temporary Flight Restrictions Remain in Effect Over Timber and Plaskett Fires - Drones Prohibited -
The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office is reminding the public that Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) remain in place in areas affected by the Timber and Plaskett Fires along the Big Sur and South Monterey County coastlines. Flying a drone within restricted airspace is illegal and can endanger firefighting aircraft and their crews.
On September 9, 2026, an unauthorized drone interfered with aircraft engaged in firefighting operations, resulting in the temporary grounding of aircraft. The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating this incident.
Unauthorized drone flights can force firefighting aircraft to suspend operations, delaying efforts to protect lives, property, and communities. Even a small drone can pose a serious collision hazard to helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft operating at low altitudes.
Drone operators who violate these restrictions may face significant penalties, including federal civil penalties of up to $20,000, seizure of their drone as evidence, and criminal prosecution. California Penal Code § 402(a) prohibits conduct at an emergency scene that impedes emergency personnel and specifically applies to persons operating drones at the scene of an emergency.
18 U.S.C. § 40A makes it a federal crime to knowingly or recklessly operate a drone in a manner that interferes with wildfire suppression, law enforcement, or related emergency response efforts. Violations may result in a federal fine, imprisonment for up to two years, or both.
The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office and our law and fire partners who are working under unified command ask everyone to keep drones grounded near the Timber and Plaskett Fires and to stay clear of all restricted airspace.
Plaskett Fire activity remained moderated with continued progress securing the perimeter. Crews continue strengthening direct and indirect control lines and addressing remaining areas of heat. Resources are conducting mop-up, patrol, and suppression repair in secured portions of the incident. Operational efforts remain focused on completing containment lines and preventing fire movement outside established control features.
Steep, rugged terrain and limited access continue to influence suppression operations.
Aviation resources remain available to support ground operations as conditions and operational needs dictate.
WATCH: Navigating Big Sur’s Terrain: The Crucial Role of Aircraft
Several Evacuation Orders and Warnings have been downgraded or lifted due to fire suppression.
Find details here on Genasys Protect in Monterey County: Find Your Zone
Please see today's Smoke Outlook by the US Interagency Wildland Fire Air Quality Response Program.
Link: Smoke Outlook Central California - Timber Fire and Plaskett Fire
California Interagency Incident Management Team 7 Operations Section Chief Nick Cleary provides an overnight operational update and the plan to grow containment on the Plaskett Fire today.
Firefighters have completed a continuous system of handline, dozer line, roads, and other containment features around the Plaskett Fire. Crews continue strengthening and securing containment lines while addressing remaining heat. Fire activity has moderated; however, critically dry fuels remain capable of supporting additional fire activity. Resources continue patrol, mop-up, and reinforcement of established control features.
Steep, rugged terrain and limited access continue to impact suppression operations.
Evacuation Orders and Warnings remain in effect.
Firefighters have completed a continuous system of handline, dozer line, roads, and other containment features around the Plaskett Fire. Crews continue strengthening and securing containment lines while addressing remaining heat. Fire activity has moderated; however, critically dry fuels remain capable of supporting additional fire activity. Steep, rugged terrain and limited access continue to impact suppression operations.
Resources continue patrol, mop-up, and reinforcement of established control features.
Evacuation Orders and Warnings remain in effect. Highway 1 remains closed through the Plaskett Fire operational area.
The Plaskett Fire is now 29,917 acres and 73% contained.
The Plaskett Fire is now 29,917 acres.
Please see today's Smoke Outlook by the US Interagency Wildland Fire Air Quality Response Program.
Link: Smoke Outlook Central California - Timber Fire and Plaskett Fire
California Interagency Incident Management Team 7 Operations Section Chief Scott Grasmick provides an overnight operational update and the plan to contain the Plaskett Fire today.
VIDEO: Operations Update 9.9.2026
On the Plaskett Fire, crews continue strengthening direct and indirect control lines and securing areas of previous fire growth. Resources continue working to connect containment lines along the eastern portion of the incident.
Strategic firing operations and aviation support continue to assist containment efforts. Steep, rugged terrain and limited access continue to challenge suppression operations. Structure defense and protection of critical infrastructure remain priorities.
While Evacuation Warnings have been lifted in San Luis Obispo County, Evacuation Orders and Warnings remain in effect for portions of the incident area in Monterey County.
The northern portion of the closure on Highway 1 is located near Kirk Creek Campground at mile marker 19. The southern portion of the closure has been relocated to mile marker 10.5 near the Willow Springs Caltrans Yard.
The Los Padres National Forest, in collaboration with California Interagency Incident Management Team 7, hosted a virtual community meeting tonight. Members from CIIMT 7, Los Padres National Forest, Fort Hunter Liggett Fire Department and additional cooperating agencies provided the latest information on the Plaskett Fire.
The Plaskett Fire is now 61% contained. Crews continue strengthening direct and indirect control lines and securing areas of previous fire growth. Strategic firing operations and aviation support continue to assist containment efforts. Steep, rugged terrain and limited access continue to challenge suppression operations.
Structure defense and protection of critical infrastructure remain priorities.
Evacuation Orders and Warnings remain in effect for portions of the incident area. The Highway 1 closure is from mile marker 19 at the Kirk Creek Campground down to mile marker 10.5 north of Gorda near the Willow Springs Caltrans Yard.
There have been changes to Evacuation Orders and Warning due to fire suppression efforts.
According to CHP - Monterey, the southern Highway 1 road closure has been relocated to mile marker 10.5 near the Willow Springs Caltrans Yard. The northern closure is from mile marker 19 at the Kirk Creek Campground. Tree Bones Resort will not open as a result of this change.
The Plaskett Fire is now 29,884 acres.
Please see today's Smoke Outlook by the US Interagency Wildland Fire Air Quality Response Program.
Link: Smoke Outlook Central California - Timber Fire and Plaskett Fire
California Interagency Incident Management Team 7 Operations Section Chief Nick Cleary provides an overnight operational update and the plan to contain the Plaskett Fire today.
VIDEO: Operations Update 9.8.2026
Crews continue strengthening direct and indirect control lines across the Plaskett Fire. Resources continue securing areas of previous fire growth. Strategic firing operations and aviation support continue to assist containment efforts. Resources continue working to connect containment lines along the eastern portion of the incident. Steep, rugged terrain and limited access remain operational challenges.
Structure defense and protection of critical infrastructure remain priorities.
Warmer and drier conditions are expected this week.
Evacuation Orders and Warnings remain in effect.
California Interagency Incident Management Team 7 is in command. The team and its cooperators will host a virtual community meeting tonight at 6:00p.m.
You can watch the meeting live here either on Facebook by using this link: Plaskett Fire Community Meeting on Facebook or YouTube by using this link: Plaskett Fire Community Meeting on YouTube
Favorable weather on the Plaskett Fire continues to support progress along established control features. Crews continue strengthening direct and indirect control lines and securing areas of previous fire growth. Strategic firing operations and aviation support continue to assist containment efforts. Steep, rugged terrain and limited access continue to challenge suppression operations. Structure defense and protection of critical infrastructure remain priorities.
Evacuation Orders and Warnings remain in effect for portions of the incident area.
A portion of highway 1 is closed from mile marker 19 at the Kirk Creek Campground down to mile marker 0.0 at the Monterey/San Luis Obispo County line.
California Interagency Incident Management Team 7 is in command. The team and its cooperators will host a virtual community meeting tomorrow night, Tuesday at 6:00p.m. You can watch the meeting live here: Plaskett Fire Virtual Community Meeting
The Plaskett Fire is now 29,862 acres and 47% contained.
The Plaskett Fire is now 29,839 acres.
The Plaskett Fire is now 30,124 acres.
Please see today's Smoke Outlook by the US Interagency Wildland Fire Air Quality Response Program.
Link: Smoke Outlook Central California - Timber Fire and Plaskett Fire
The Los Padres National Forest, in collaboration with California Interagency Incident Management Team 7, will host a virtual community meeting at 6:00p.m. on Tuesday, September 8, 2026 regarding the Plaskett Fire. Members from CIIMT 7, Los Padres National Forest, Fort Hunter Liggett Fire Department, and additional cooperating agencies will be on hand to provide updated fire information.
To view this live event, scan the QR code in the attached event flyer. The meeting will also be broadcast live here: Los Padres National Forest Facebook
California Interagency Incident Management Team 7 Operations Section Chief Scott Grasmick shares an update on current operational priorities and containment strategies for the Plaskett Fire.
VIDEO: Operations Update 9.7.2026
The Plaskett Fire has burned 29,862 acres and is 37% contained. Favorable weather has supported continued progress on control-line construction and perimeter security. Crews continue strengthening direct and indirect control lines, with strategic firing operations and aviation support helping improve containment. Steep, rugged terrain and limited access remain ongoing operational challenges, and structure defense and protection of critical infrastructure remain top priorities.
California Interagency Incident Management Team 7 is in command of the incident.
Looking ahead, operations will continue to focus on securing control features and addressing remaining heat on the Timber Fire, while crews on the Plaskett Fire maintain perimeter-securing operations and reinforce control lines. Coordination between both incident management teams and CAL FIRE agency representatives continues throughout.
The Plaskett Fire is now 37% contained.
Crews took advantage of favorable weather conditions during the previous operational period to build and strengthen control lines around the Plaskett Fire. Strategic firing operations and perimeter-securing efforts continued. Resources strengthened both direct and indirect control lines, supported by rotary- and fixed-wing aircraft delivering retardant. Operations remain focused on securing the perimeter and improving containment in steep, rugged terrain.
VIDEO: If you fly, we can't
Evacuation Orders and Warnings remain in effect.
CIIMT 7 remains in command.
The Plaskett Fire is now 29,831 acres.
Please see today's Smoke Outlook by the US Interagency Wildland Fire Air Quality Response Program.
Link: Smoke Outlook Central California - Timber Fire and Plaskett Fire
CIIMT 7 Operations Section Trainee Derek Steidley provides a detailed update on what happened overnight and the plan to suppress the Plaskett Fire today.
VIDEO: Operations Update 9.6.2026
The Plaskett Fire spread has moderated under cooler conditions, allowing crews to continue making progress. Steep, rugged terrain, heavy vegetation, and limited access continue to challenge suppression operations. Crews continue strengthening existing control features and work to limit additional fire spread. Structure defense and protection of critical infrastructure remain operational priorities.
Evacuation Orders and Warnings remain in effect across portions of Monterey County and Fort Hunter Liggett, with Evacuation Warnings remaining in portions of San Luis Obispo County.
The Plaskett Fire is now 29,813 acres.
Please see today's Smoke Outlook by the US Interagency Wildland Fire Air Quality Response Program.
Link: Smoke Outlook Central California - Timber Fire and Plaskett Fire
The Plaskett Fire has grown to 29,768 acres, also at 23% containment. Steep, rugged terrain and heavy vegetation continue to slow crews’ access and progress. Suppression operations and control-line reinforcement are ongoing, with structure defense and protection of critical infrastructure remaining top priorities.
VIDEO: Rana Mobile Retardant Base
Evacuation Orders and Warnings remain active in Monterey County and Fort Hunter Liggett, while San Luis Obispo County remains under Evacuation Warnings. CIIMT 7 is in command.
The Highway 1 Plaskett Fire closure remains in effect in both directions between mile marker 19.0 at Kirk Creek Campground on the north end and mile marker 0.0 at the Monterey/San Luis Obispo county line on the south end, due to ongoing wildfire operations.
The fire continues to challenge crews in steep, rugged terrain with heavy vegetation and limited access. Resources continue suppression operations and strengthening existing control features. Structure defense and protection of critical infrastructure remain operational priorities. Containment has grown to 23%.
VIDEO: Air Ops: Arroyo Grande Helitack
Evacuation Orders and Warnings remain in effect in Monterey County and Fort Hunter Liggett. Evacuation Warnings remain in effect in San Luis Obispo County.
Highway 1 remains closed in both directions between the Monterey/San Luis Obispo County line at mile marker 0.0 and Kirk Creek Campground at mile marker 19 as emergency crews continue active wildfire operations in the area. Please drive with caution in the area.
There has been a change in Evacuation Shelters for the Timber and Plaskett Fires.
The Carmel shelter has closed. The Cambria shelter has moved to Santa Rosa Catholic Church, 1174 Main St, Cambria, CA 93428.
Please see today's Smoke Outlook by the US Interagency Wildland Fire Air Quality Response Program.
Link: Smoke Outlook Central California - Timber Fire and Plaskett Fire
The Plaskett Fire has burned 29,702 acres and is 19% contained. The fire continues to challenge crews in steep, rugged terrain with heavy vegetation and limited access. Resources are continuing suppression operations and strengthening existing control features, with structure defense and protection of critical infrastructure remaining operational priorities.
Evacuation Orders and Warnings remain in effect in Monterey County and Fort Hunter Liggett, while Evacuation Warnings remain in effect in San Luis Obispo County.
The Highway 1 closure is in effect from mile marker 19 at the Kirk Creek Campground down to mile marker 0.0 at the Monterey/San Luis Obispo County line.
Fire continues to challenge crews in steep, rugged terrain with heavy vegetation and limited access. Resources continue suppression operations and strengthening existing control features.
Structure defense and protection of critical infrastructure remain priorities.
The Plaskett Fire is now 29,521 acres.
There have been several changes to Evacuation Orders and Warnings due to fire suppression efforts. One zone has been upgraded to an Evacuation Order due to fire activity.
Find details here on Genasys Protect in Monterey County: Know Your Zone
According to CHP - Monterey, the north closure of Highway 1 has moved to mile marker 19 at the Kirk Creek Campground. The south closure remains the same which is mile marker 0.0 at the Monterey/San Luis Obispo County line.
Please see today's Smoke Outlook by the US Interagency Wildland Fire Air Quality Response Program.
Link: Smoke Outlook Central California - Timber Fire and Plaskett Fire
Firefighters are making steady progress on the Timber Fire while the Plaskett Fire continues to challenge crews in steep, rugged terrain along California’s Central Coast, according to the latest update from Los Padres National Forest.
The Plaskett Fire remains far more volatile, with continued growth reported across portions of the incident. Steep, rugged terrain, heavy vegetation, and limited access are all complicating suppression efforts. Crews are focused on strengthening existing control features and limiting further spread, with structure defense and protection of critical infrastructure remaining top priorities.
Evacuation Orders and Warnings remain in effect across Monterey County, and Evacuation Warnings continue in portions of San Luis Obispo County.
CIIMT 7 is in command.
According to CHP - Monterey, the Highway 1 road closure for the Timber Fire has been lifted. The Highway 1 road closure for the Plaskett Fire remains in effect. The closure is from Pacific Valley at mile marker 16 down to mile marker 0.0 at the Monterey/San Luis Obispo County line.
Firefighting crews reported continued progress on both the Timber and Plaskett Fires during Wednesday’s operational period, with fire behavior moderating under cooler temperatures across the region.
The Plaskett Fire has grown to 29,123 acres and remains at 1% containment. Cooler temperatures and improved humidity helped moderate fire behavior during the operational period. The eastern portion of the fire remains the primary concern for crews as it continues burning into Fort Hunter Liggett, where steep terrain, heavy vegetation, and limited access are complicating suppression efforts. Resources are focused on structure defense and reinforcing established control lines.
Evacuation orders and warnings remain in effect in Monterey County, and evacuation warnings remain active in San Luis Obispo County. CIIMT 7 is in command.
Highway 1 remains closed in two segments due to the fires. The Timber Fire closure extends from mile marker 56, south of the Little Sur River, to mile marker 45, south of Big Sur.
The Plaskett Fire closure runs from mile marker 16 in the Pacific Valley area to mile marker 0.09, just north of the Monterey/San Luis Obispo County line. The northern closure, from mile marker 56 to mile marker 45, is scheduled to open tomorrow at 6 a.m.
Tonight, members of the community were invited to a community meeting hosted by CIIMT 3 at Mid Coast Fire Brigade in Carmel. The meeting was recorded.
According to Caltrans, as of 6:00am Thursday, September 3, 2026, the northern closure of Highway 1 supporting Timber Fire operations will be moved from mile marker 56 south of Little Sur River to mile marker 45, just south of the Big Sur Post Office.
The southern closure from Pacific Valley at mile marker 16 down to mile marker 0.0 at the Monterey/San Luis Obispo County line remains in place to support Plaskett Fire emergency response efforts. Please avoid that area and use U.S. 101 as an alternate route.
The Plaskett Fire is now 29,076 acres.
Please see today's Smoke Outlook by the US Interagency Wildland Fire Air Quality Response Program.
Link: U.S. Interagency Wildland Fire Air Quality Response Program Smoke Outlook
There will be a public information meeting tonight, September 2, 2026 at 6:00p.m. at Mid Coast Fire Brigade, 38,000 Palo Colorado Road, Carmel, CA 93923.
This Public Meeting will be broadcast as a live event on the U.S. Forest Service - Los Padres Nat'l Forest Facebook Page. ASL interpretation will also be available via the facebook.
This meeting will provide an opportunity to discuss the current status of the Timber and Plaskett Fires. Agency representatives will be present to answer questions the community may have regarding evacuations and closures.
Firefighters continue to make progress on both the Timber and Plaskett fires as cooler temperatures and improved overnight humidity recovery help moderate fire behavior across the incidents.
The Plaskett Fire is currently mapped at 28,968 acres and 1% contained. Fire behavior moderated overnight following significant growth during previous operational periods. The eastern portion of the incident remains a primary operational concern as the fire continues burning toward and into Fort Hunter Liggett. Steep terrain and heavy fuels continue to influence fire behavior and limit direct access for firefighters. Crews are focused on strengthening control lines and securing the western portion of the incident while continuing to monitor fire activity across the perimeter.
Cooler temperatures and higher relative humidity are expected to help moderate fire behavior and support suppression operations.
Evacuation Orders and Evacuation Warnings remain in effect in Monterey County, while Evacuation Warnings remain in effect in San Luis Obispo County.
California Incident Management Team 7 is in command of the Plaskett Fire.
Highway 1 remains closed to through traffic through the fire area. There is currently no estimated reopening time. The closure extends from approximately mile marker 56, south of the Little Sur River, on the north end, to the Monterey/San Luis Obispo County line on the south end.
Motorists are urged to avoid the area and follow all posted closures and directions from emergency personnel.
The Plaskett Fire remains active in steep, rugged terrain with heavy fuels and limited access, with significant growth continuing along the eastern portion of the incident into Fort Hunter Liggett.
Crews continue strengthening control features along the northern perimeter using strategic firing operations, while aviation and ground resources continue suppression efforts along the southern portion of the incident. Structure defense remains a primary operational priority. Cooler temperatures and higher humidity are expected to provide more favorable conditions for suppression operations going forward.
Evacuation Orders and Warnings remain in effect in Monterey County. In San Luis Obispo County, zones SLC-001, SLC-002, and SLC-003 remain under Evacuation Warnings. This incident is being managed by California Interagency Incident Management Team 7 (CIIMT 7).
Highway 1 Closure
Highway 1 remains closed from mile marker 56 (south of the Little Sur River) on the north end to mile marker 0.09 (just north of the San Luis Obispo County line) on the south end. No estimated time for reopening has been provided.
The Plaskett Fire has burned 27,580 acres and remains at 1% containment. The fire continued aggressive growth during the previous operational period, primarily along the eastern perimeter as it pushes into Fort Hunter Liggett. Steep terrain and heavy fuels continue to drive fire behavior.
Crews made progress along the northern edge, using firing operations along the Slick Rock road system, while aviation resources supported suppression efforts along the southern edge near Los Burros Road. Structure defense remains a primary operational priority, and crews are working to hold the fire within the Willow Creek drainage to the south.
Evacuation Orders and Warnings remain in effect in Monterey County. In San Luis Obispo County, zones SLC-001, SLC-002, and SLC-003 remain under Evacuation Warnings. CIIMT 3 has transitioned command of the Plaskett Fire to CIIMT 7.
The Plaskett Fire showed continued aggressive growth today, primarily along the eastern perimeter as the fire pushes deeper into Fort Hunter Liggett, into areas that have not burned in more than 50 years. Steep terrain and heavy fuels remain the primary drivers of fire behavior.
Crews made strong progress along the northern edge of the fire, using strategic firing operations to help check its advance along the Slick Rock road system, from San Miguel Creek east to Slickrock Creek. Aviation resources, including Super Scoopers, were in heavy use along the southern edge to help slow the fire's progress along Los Burros Road, while firefighters continued structure defense operations in the area.
Tonight's operations will continue to focus on structure defense and protection measures, with plans in place to hold the fire within the Willow Creek drainage to the south.
Weather Outlook
An early-season low-pressure trough will bring unseasonably cool temperatures and higher humidity to the Timber Fire area tomorrow—likely one of the coolest days since the fire began, with highs mainly in the 60s and struggling to reach the 70s even in interior portions of the fire zone.
Winds will remain onshore out of the west, with gusts up to around 15 mph along exposed ridges near the Coast Ridge Trail. Lower elevations below 2,000 feet will continue to see favorable humidity levels, aiding mop-up efforts. Cooler air aloft should help erode the marine inversion layer at the highest elevations, above 3,000 feet.
Skies will be partly cloudy tonight as a weak frontal boundary moves through. This front may bring light showers or drizzle overnight into Wednesday morning, particularly around Big Sur and Pfeiffer Camp, though accumulations are expected to be minimal—a few hundredths of an inch at most.
Firing operations along the southwest perimeter of the Plaskett Fire continue to advance effectively. Crews have successfully secured the control line from Willow Creek to Plaskett Campground.
On the northern perimeter, firefighters are conducting firing operations off the established dozer line, with efforts underway to connect that line into Plaskett Campground. This work will further strengthen containment along the northern edge of the fire.
Steady progress continues to be made as weather and operational conditions allow.
The Plaskett Fire has burned about 15,479 acres and is only 1% contained. It grew fast, nearly doubling in size during the last operational period. It's burning in steep, rugged terrain with thick vegetation, which makes it hard for ground crews to reach. The fire has been pushing toward Highway 1 and moving east into the interior, and there's ongoing concern it could keep spreading south. Crews on the ground are focused on defending structures, building new containment lines, and reinforcing roads, ridgelines, and other natural barriers that can help stop the fire. Aircraft continue to assist with suppression whenever conditions allow.
For residents in the area, several evacuation zones have seen changes: zone MRY-F037 was upgraded from a Warning to a full Evacuation Order, and a new Evacuation Order was issued for MRY-G012-A. Evacuation Warnings are now in effect for zones MRY-F038, MRY-F039, MRY-G011-A, and MRY-G012-B. San Luis Obispo County also issued its first Evacuation Warnings tied to this fire, for zones SLC-001, SLC-002, and SLC-003 — marking the first time protective actions have extended into that county. The incident is being managed by California Interagency Incident Management Team 3 (CIIMT 3).
Highway 1 is closed in this area too, from mile marker 16.0 (just north of the Pacific Valley Ranger Station) on the north end down to mile marker 2.1 (just south of Salmon Creek) on the south end.
The Plaskett Fire remains active and has backed down to Highway 1, with crews continuing structure protection operations. The largest acreage growth occurred on the eastern side toward Fort Hunter Liggett and to the south near Los Burros Road. Crews remain actively engaged in structure defense along Los Burros Road.
VIDEO: Afternoon Fire Growth Caught on Alert California Camera
Night flying helicopters are in place to continue structure protection overnight. Crews not assigned to structure protection continue opening containment line along Prewitt Ridge and South Coast Ridge Road. Heavy vegetation and limited fire history in the area continue to drive active fire behavior.
Evacuation orders remain in effect in Monterey County, with evacuation warnings extending into San Luis Obispo County.
The San Luis Obispo County Office of Emergency Services says three zones have been added to an Evaucation Order in connection to the Plaskett Fire. They are SLC-001, SLC-002 and SLC-003.
Find your zone by visiting the San Luis Obispo Office of Emergency Services: Protective Action Status Map
The CHP - Monterey has moved the southern road closure on Highway 1. The closure has been relocated to mile marker 0.09, just north of the San Luis Obispo County line. The northern road closure remains south of Little Sur River at mile marker 56.
The Monterey County Sheriff's Officer has issued an Evacuation Order for zone MRY-F038.
Genasys Protect: Find Your Zone
Please see today's Smoke Outlook by the US Interagency Wildland Fire Air Quality Response Program.
Link: Smoke Outlook Central California - Timber Fire and Plaskett Fire
CIIMT 3 Planning Operations Section Trainee Neil Gamboa provides an operational update for both the Timber and Plaskett Fires.
VIDEO: Operations Update 8.30.2026
Join California Interagency Incident Management Team 3 (CIIMT 3) for a brown bag lunch event today. This is an opportunity for the community to get information about the Timber and Plaskett Fires.
The Plaskett Fire is 8,241 acres and containment is 1%.
The fire has backed down to Highway 1 and firefighters have continued to focus on structure protection as the fire remains active. A large surge of resources continues to arrive on-scene at the fire.
The fire gained the most acreage on the eastern side burning toward Fort Hunter Liggett and to the south, where firefighters are actively engaged in structure defense on Los Burros Road. Night flying helicopters are in place for continued structure protection overnight.
Crews not engaged with structure protection continue to open CONTAINMENT line along Prewitt Ridge and along the South Coast Ridge Road. With no fire history in the area in more than 50 years, heavy vegetation is driving the active fire behavior.
Weather over the next few days is expected to trend cooler with higher humidity. Firefighters will take advantage of favorable conditions to look for every opportunity possible to use direct containment tactics. (Per Los Padres National Forest)
The Plaskett Fire experienced significant growth during the last operational period and remained active overnight and throughout the day. Fire behavior included flanking, uphill runs, and isolated tree torching, with continued growth occurring around multiple portions of the incident.
The fire remains positioned for upslope movement in multiple directions through complex terrain. Steep slopes, heavy fuels, and difficult access continue to create significant challenges for suppression resources.
On the eastern and southern flanks, continued upslope movement is expected through the evening and overnight operational period. Fire activity is expected to continue impacting Los Burros Road and South Coast Road.
The Highway 1 corridor continues to be impacted by the fire. Structures and critical infrastructure along the corridor remain threatened, and crews have initiated firing operations around primary residences and critical infrastructure to improve defensible space.
On Willow Creek and Plaskett Ridge, the fire spread remains a concern down the Willow Creek drainage, with potential for the fire to move up and over Plaskett Ridge and back toward values at risk along Highway 1.
Along the northeast flank, fire progression up the North Fork of Willow Creek could threaten Prewitt Loop. Terrain alignment may support additional fire movement through the larger bowl and canyon systems near Los Burros Road and McKern Forest Road.
There is a full suppression strategy on this fire. Crews will continue direct and aggressive attack where conditions permit, while establishing and strengthening control lines in areas where terrain and fire behavior allow. Strategic firing, backfire, and burnout operations will continue as necessary to keep pace with the main fire, strengthen control features, and increase defensible space around threatened structures.
Fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft will continue supporting ground resources where appropriate, assisting with direct suppression and the establishment of contingency lines. Steep terrain and the remote location continue to limit access and suppression opportunities. Heavy fuel loading has allowed the fire to cross control features, while portions burning within the Dolan Fire scar contain significant dead and down material that is hampering suppression efforts.
Tonight winds are expected to shift back to the northeast, with gusts potentially reaching approximately 13 mph on the fire as a weak, dry front passes through the area. Cooler temperatures are expected to remain in place, with the marine layer forecast to deepen to approximately 2,000–2,500 feet. Relative humidity is expected to remain generally in the 20–30% range.
Suppression resources continue working toward keeping the fire west of South Coast Ridge Road, north of Los Burros Road, east of Highway 1, and south of Nacimiento-Fergusson Road.
Firefighter and public safety, structure defense along the Highway 1 corridor, holding and improving established control features, and limiting additional fire spread remain the primary operational priorities into tonight.
There are two shelters set up for the Timber and Plaskett Fires:
- Carmel Mission Inn Conference Room, 3665 Rio Rd, Carmel, CA 93923
- Cambria Veterans Memorial Building, 1000 Main St, Cambria
The Plaskett Fire is now 8,241 acres.
According to CHP - Monterey, the southern Highway 1 closure has been moved to mile marker 2.1, just south of Salmon Creek. This closure location is aligned with the southern border of Evacaution Zone MRY-F037, which is now in Evacuation Order.
The northern closure remains the same at south of Little Sur River at mile marker 56.
The Monterey County Sheriff''s Office has put zone MRY-G012-A into an Evacuation Order, and MRY-G012-B and MRY-G011-A to an Evacuation Warning.
Genasys Protect: Find Your Zone
Firefighting operations are intensifying as additional personnel and equipment integrate into the incident, expanding overall operational capacity. The fire remains active near Highway 1 in the Jade Cove area, with crews working aggressively to protect structures, critical infrastructure, and stop further spread.
On the eastern flank near South Coast Road, firefighters are securing control lines and prioritizing patrol of a two-acre slopover.
South of Willow Creek, crews are assessing options to strengthen existing barrier features to check fire progression. Warmer, drier daytime conditions and afternoon winds are elevating fire behavior in exposed fuels, prompting crews to closely monitor high-risk areas. Firefighters are also preparing for an overnight shift in wind direction toward the northeast, adjusting tactics as terrain, dry fuels, and shifting weather demand.
Protecting homes and infrastructure remains a top priority, particularly along the western section of Plaskett Ridge Road toward Highway 1. Resources are actively clearing defensible space, prepping structures, and pre-positioning fire engines to respond to changing fire lines. Extensive structure protection continues along Los Burros Road. On the southern front, firefighters are extending hose lays, strengthening primary lines, and conducting tactical firing operations to burn out fuels between the main fire and nearby homes. Crews are utilizing natural ridgelines, roads, hand lines, and bulldozer paths, while evaluating options for a secondary contingency line east of South Coast Road. Ground teams are actively cooling hotspots along established boundaries to prevent spot fires or further slopovers.
Helicopters and air tankers continue targeted water drops to slow fire advancement, reduce flame intensity around structures, and support ground crews navigating steep and rugged terrain. Highway 1 remains fully closed from Mile Marker 10.1 near Gorda to Mile Marker 56 near Big Sur due to active fire operations, falling rock, and fire-weakened trees.
The U.S. Forest Service, Monterey County emergency agencies, and CAL FIRE are closely coordinating all suppression and emergency response efforts. Residents and visitors must remain vigilant, obey all evacuation orders and warnings, avoid travel in operational zones, and monitor official agency channels for real-time safety updates.
The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office is upgrading Zone MRY-F037 from an Evacuation Warning to an Evacuation Order, and adding zones MRY-F039 and MRY-F038 to the Evacuation Warning.
Genasys Protect: Find Your Zone
Fire Behavior Analyst (FBAN) Dan Lerma explains how vegetation will be impacted by the fires and by the weather.
Timber Fire Incident Meteorologist (IMET) Aviva Braun provides a detailed forecast for the fire areas.
Timber Fire Operations with CIIMT 3 Nathan Arellano provides a detailed update on what happened overnight and the plan to suppress the Timber and Plaskett fires today.
VIDEO: Operations Update 8.29.2026
Lost Padres National Forest announces an Emergency Area Closure around the Plaskett Fire 8.29.2026
The Los Padres National Forest has issued Forest Order 05-07-51-26-10, effective August 29, 2026, establishing an emergency closure for the Monterey Ranger District to protect public safety during the Timber and Plaskett Fires.
This order replaces Order 05-07-51-26-08 and remains active until the fires are officially declared out.
-
Closed Areas: All National Forest System lands, roads, and trails within the Monterey Ranger District Emergency Closure Area are off-limits to the public.
-
Exceptions: Pfeiffer Beach and Sycamore Canyon Road remain open.
-
Exemptions: Authorized personnel on official duty (emergency responders, agency officers), private land owners/residents needing access (provided no active evacuation order is in effect), and individuals holding specific Forest Service permits (FS-7700-48).
-
Penalties: Violations carry fines of up to $5,000 for individuals ($10,000 for organizations), up to six months imprisonment, or both.
READ FULL DETAILS HERE: Los Padres Nat'l Forest Closure Order
The Plaskett Fire experienced slight progression overnight, continuing to back downslope toward Highway 1 south of Plaskett Road. Fire activity moderated during the overnight period under improved humidity recovery and increased marine influence. Crews remain actively engaged along this portion of the incident, monitoring fire movement and reinforcing control features as conditions allow.
On the upper portion of the incident, fire activity continues to influence areas toward South Coast Ridge Road. Dozers and ground resources are extending, improving, and strengthening approximately seven miles of containment line associated with the South Coast Ridge Road system. These control features continue to hold, and crews will focus today on increasing line depth, improving access, and securing areas where fire activity could challenge established containment features.
Structure defense remains a primary operational priority. Resources continue evaluating threatened areas, preparing structures, and positioning personnel and equipment where changing fire conditions could increase structure exposure. Aviation resources will support ground operations with water drops as visibility and weather conditions allow, focusing on slowing fire progression and reducing fire intensity near structures and critical control features.
Additional personnel and equipment are expected to arrive on the incident today, increasing operational capacity and allowing resources to expand suppression, structure-defense, and contingency operations.
The Plaskett Fire has grown to 5,924 acres.
The Plaskett Fire has grown to 5,417 acres.
The Plaskett Fire is moving closer toward Highway 1 as the afternoon progresses, just south of Plaskett Ridge Road. Fire behavior is beginning to increase, with activity progressing north and toward South Coast Ridge Road. Control features like existing roads and trails where strategically placed dozer and hand lines were extended to build control lines are holding at this time.
Air Attack pilots anticipate the fire may reach South Coast Ridge Road within the next 1 to 1.5 hours, based on current fire behavior and conditions.
Ground crews remain focused on developing and implementing structure-defense plans in critical areas where fire progression may threaten structures.
The area is transitioning from cooler, moist conditions and light rain to drier weather. A Red Flag Warning remains in effect due to the potential for isolated thunderstorms.
Thunderstorms may produce erratic winds and gusts up to 40 mph, potentially contributing to increased and unpredictable fire behavior.
TIMBER FIRE TOWN HALL
Please join California Incident Management Team 3, Cachagua, and other cooperating fire agencies for a community meeting to receive the latest updates regarding the Timber Fire. Community Members will have an opportunity to hear directly from officials and ask questions.
Details:
- Saturday, August 29 at 4:00 PM
- Cachagua Community Park, 37320 Nason Road, Carmel Valley, CA 93924
According to CHP - Monterey, the Highway 1 closure has been adjusted on the northside to mile marker 56, south of Little Sur River. The southside mile marker remains the same at mile marker 10.1 in Gorda near the By the Sea Mini Mart.
There have been changes in Evacuation Orders and Warnings due to fire activity.
Timber Fire Incident Meteorologist (IMET) Aviva Braun provides a detailed forecast for the fire areas.
Timber Fire Operations with CIIMT 3 Nathan Arellano provides a detailed update on what happened overnight and the plan to suppress both the Timber and Plaskett Fires today.
VIDEO: Operations Update 8.28.2026
Fire activity on the Plaskett Fire remained limited overnight. Firefighters continue to utilize heavy helicopters for suppression efforts and targeted structure defense. Ground crews remain focused on developing and executing structure-defense plans in critical areas where the fire threatens to advance.
Two dedicated air attacks are assigned to the area. Operations are supported by Type 1 and Type 2 helicopters as well as Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) flying day and night missions. Air tanker availability may be limited due to high national demand.
The area is transitioning from cooler, moist conditions and light rain to drier weather today. A Red Flag Warning remains in effect due to the potential for isolated thunderstorms, which could trigger erratic winds and gusts up to 40 mph from outflow boundaries.
Fire activity is expected to pick up as fuels dry out, with potential spotting distances of roughly 0.1 to 0.2 miles. Firefighters are instructed to maintain heightened situational awareness for rapidly changing weather and fire conditions and to conduct thorough tailgate safety briefings prior to engaging on the line.
The Plaskett Fire has grown to 2,774 acres.
On the west side, the Plaskett Fire continues its progression toward Highway 1, with fire activity largely concentrated around Willow Creek, just north of Los Burros Road. Significant growth to the north was observed today as the fire crossed Plaskett Ridge and established itself in the canyon behind Pacific Valley. In response, ground crews actively triaged and prepped threatened properties to establish crucial defensible space. Heavy equipment was deployed to initiate a dozer line off South Coast Ridge Road at Pruitt Ridge, extending down to connect with the rear of the Pacific Valley Station, while additional equipment is being staged to construct containment lines along South Coast Ridge Road back toward the Los Burros sign to secure the eastern perimeter. VIDEO: Plaskett Fire Puts Off Heavy Smoke
Moving into the overnight operational shift, resources will focus primarily on structure defense, active patrolling, and perimeter protection. Night crews will operate in a defensive posture, maintaining a heavy, visible presence along both Los Burros Road and Highway 1 to safeguard structures and monitor for potential spot fires.
The Plaskett Fire has grown to 1,700 acres.
FULL CLOSURE: Highway 1 is closed from north of Gorda at Mile Marker 10.2 to one mile south of Old Coast Road at Mile Marker 50.1 due to fire activity.
At this time there is no estimated time to reopen.
The Plaskett Fire remains active in steep, rugged terrain east of Los Burros Road in the Plaskett area of Big Sur.
Extreme terrain continues to challenge ground crews, who are working from available roads, ridgelines, and other strategic locations to establish and strengthen direct and indirect control lines.
Aviation resources are supporting ground operations with water and retardant drops as flying conditions allow. Meanwhile, structure defense resources remain positioned along Los Burros Road and near threatened buildings.
The U.S. Forest Service, CAL FIRE, the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office, and cooperating agencies continue to coordinate suppression and evacuation operations.
Hot, dry, and unstable weather conditions remain a concern, creating potential for erratic fire behavior and sudden changes in movement. Operational priorities remain firefighter and public safety, structure defense, containment, and limiting fire spread.
New Evacuation Orders and Warnings have been issued due to increased fire activity.
Air resources are working progressively up a canyon to slow Plaskett Fire spread and support firefighters on the ground. Nine aircraft are currently assigned to the incident, including six helicopters conducting water-dropping operations. Access to the fire is limited and the terrain is steep making it very difficult for ground crews to make access.
After initially burning north-northwest, the fire crossed a drainage and is now working up the south side of a mountain following a slope reversal. This shift places approximately eight structures under a potential threat. A CAL FIRE Strike Team is actively engaged in structure defense and mitigation, while the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office conducts evacuations in the area.
If you are impacted by this fire, please heed all law enforcement directions and evacuation orders immediately.
Firefighters from various agencies including U.S. Forest Service, CAL FIRE, and local government are aggressively moving ground crews and heavy equipment to the perimeter of the Plaskett Fire in Monterey County to establish containment lines. Specialized elite Hotshot crews are actively working to gain access to the fire's edge, while eight air tankers have been requested to fly overhead and assist ground personnel with targeted retardant drops.
To ensure community safety, the CAL FIRE Tulare Charlie Strike Team is deploying directly to Los Perros Road to assist roughly 30 local residents, lead necessary evacuation efforts, and prepare homes for structure defense. Simultaneously, firefighters are carrying out evacuations and structure defense along Burro Road, where initial mapping indicates between five and eight structures may be threatened.
As additional leadership and overhead command personnel arrive on scene, officials will formally establish operational divisions, known as Divisions Mike and Bravo, to coordinate firefighting efforts across the area.
Please stay tuned for updates.
Evacuation Orders and Warnings have been issued in the Plaskett Fire.
The Plaskett Fire has grown to an estimated 80 acres with a moderate rate of spread. Air resources are dropping water on the fire, which is in very difficult terrain that is hard to access. A helibase has been set up to support fire suppression efforts.
New incident off Forest Rd 23S10, east of Los Burros Rd - Plaskett Fire is 50 acres.
Additional Information
Road Closures
A portion of highway 1 is closed:
- The closure is from mile marker 19 at the Kirk Creek Campground down to mile marker 10.5 north of Gorda near the Willow Springs Caltrans Yard
ALERTCalifornia Camera Feed
Resources Assigned
-
1,328Personnel
-
14Helicopters
-
71Engines
-
7Dozers
-
14Water Tenders
-
40Crews
Numerous firefighting air tankers from throughout the State are flying fire suppression missions as conditions allow.
Contact Information
Plaskett Fire Information Email
2026.plaskett@firenet.gov
Plaskett Fire Information Phone
(805) 257-9891
Social Media
The map layers provided are powered by Esri, Genasys, Perimeter and other potential resources, and are based on their respective data sources. The accuracy and reliability of the information are subject to the data provided by these platforms.
