Owens, Hot Creek Fire Update

Crews are responding to two new fires on or near the Inyo National Forest. Both are east of Hwy. 395. The Owens Fire is estimated to be 500 acres. It is burning along the Owens River Road, which is east of the June Lake area. The fire grew rapidly with strong winds and is burning predominately in sagebrush. Crews, engines, and dozers have responded and have been supported by aircraft with water and retardant drops. The Owens River Road is closed. There is an evacuation advisory for Big Springs Campground, Inaja Ranch, and the Arcularius Ranch.

The Hot Creek Fire is burning near Hot Creek, east of the Mammoth Lakes Airport. It is estimated to be 500 acres. It was also pushed by gusty winds in sagebrush. There are numerous crews, engines, and a dozer committed as well as aircraft support. The Antelope Road and the Hot Creek Road are closed. Please avoid the fire areas so the firefighters can safely respond to the fire.

More resources are on order. Crews will staff these fires throughout the night in an effort to start containing these fires. They hope to take advantage of the evening when winds typically die down in the Eastern Sierra. Response is from numerous local agencies.

Both fires are highly visible from Hwy. 395. There was substantial thunderstorms activity in the area.

Both the Owens Fire (312 acres) and the Hot Creek Fire (436 acres) remain at 80% contained. The Owens Fire is located along the Owens River Road, which is east of Hwy. 395 in the June Lake area. The Hot Creek Fire is burning near Hot Creek, east of the Mammoth Lakes Airport. This fire has been determined to be on Bureau of Land Management, Bishop Field Office and Inyo National Forest land. Both have been determined to be lightning-caused fires. Fire activity on both fires is minimal. Both fires have dozer and handline completed around them. Crews continue mopping up; the process of cooling hot spots with water within the fire perimeter. Crews start near the edge of the fire and work interior (if safe) to find areas such as stumps or logs that may retain heat. This is a slow, deliberate process to help contain the fire.

As of 6:00 pm tonight, the road closures (Owens River Road between Big Springs Campground and Cashbaugh Ranch, Antelope Springs Road (3S05) between Cashbaugh Ranch and Antelope Springs) will be lifted. At 6:00 pm tonight, the evacuation advisors will be lifted. This includes the Big Springs Campground, Inaja Ranch, and the Arcularius Ranch.

Thanks to the response from numerous local agencies including Bureau of Land Management, Cal Fire, Mono County Sheriff, and numerous local fire agencies.

Fire crews remain in the area, so please drive slowly for your and their safety.