Today, Tonight, and Tomorrow: A Look at Current Operations Around the North End of the August Complex

Posted 9:48 p.m.

A firefighter uses a drip torch to remove vegetation from in front of the August Complex. [Photo from InciWeb]

Cal Fire, which is attacking the August Complex from the west near the Humboldt/Trinity County line, said in a prepared statement tonight:

Hot temperature, low humidity, steep terrain, and extremely dry fuels again challenged firefighters on the West Zone. As crews battled spot fires another day, they were able to utilize air support. Water-dropping helicopters and air tankers were able to be put to use today over the fire. Helicopters dropped water directly on hot spots, while air tankers strengthened indirect control lines with fire retardant. Firing operations may continue tonight and could be visible from a considerable distance. Containment on the West Zone remains at 65% with acreage at 135,866. The entire August Complex is at 1,014,324 acres.

August Complex Management Team with the US Forest Service offers a look at plans. Here’s a summary they offer of the video below.

Burnout operations are planned tonight going south from the Zenia Forest Service Guard Station to secure fire lines while weather conditions remain favorable. In this brief update, PNW2 Operations Section Chief Barry Schallenberger talks about the importance of that operation. He also reports that good progress has been made along the lines running from the west side of Ruth Lake to Van Duzen Road. That part of the fire line may soon be declared contained, at which time it will show up as black on our maps.