American Fire Update: Containment Lines Strengthened

10 Timber (litter and understory).

The northeastern portion of the fire (DIV R,DIV T,DIV Z)remains active with moderate ratesof spread when in alighnment with wind and slope. Single and group tree torching observed along Cavanah Ridge and Deep Canyon. Backing fire from edge of firing operations continues to back into Deep Canyon at a slow rate of spread.

Continued significant fire growth in DIV Z and DIV R due to fire position and canyon alignment.Firing operations began in DIV T. Aggressive and safe mop-up in DIV A and DIV H.The Incident is also supporting Initial Attack requests over the TFR footprint.Field observers were able to determine a miners cabin was lost in the Lucky Bear/Secret Canyon mine area. A Type 2 helicopterwas loaned to the El Dorado National Forest in support of initial attack. A partial road closure of Mosquito Ridge Rd (Hwy 96)from the junction of Ralston Ridge Rd(Forest Rd 23)east to the junction of Forest Rd 96-052, west of French Meadows Reservoir for public and firefighter safety. Recreation opportunties remain open in French Meadows and surrounding recreational areas.

High

Extreme

Fire is burning in an old growth stand of timber with no recorded fire history.Significant changes in fuel types associated with the fire continue to burn in steep and hazardous terrain as well as receptive timber fuels that have not burned in decades.Consumption of heavy fuels continues to create heavy smoke in the surrounding area. The Forest, timber industry,local agencies, and private landowners continue to contribute to collaborate to implement strategy and tactics that will minimize impacts on high value timber resources, The Western States Trail, watershed, and local communities. Aerial ignition options are being reviewed for implementation. Critical resources remain ordered to maintain options to contain fire with the least resource damage that can be safely accomplished.