US Forest Service#RockFire July 23 Evening Update

Percent contained: 20% | Size: 11,974

Unified Command: CAL FIRE, USFS, CHP and Inyo Sheriff

Cause: Under Investigation

CURRENT SITUATION:
The Rock Fire was very active today in Division Mike in the Northwest portion but stayed within the control objectives. In the afternoon, the winds changed and aligned with the terrain and made isolated runs. It continues to threaten Shingle Mill Bench and still has the potential to threaten the northern containment lines.

Firefighters made more progress building containment lines from Highway 395 up Division Creek Road. Firefighters continue to mop up and patrol in the community of Aberdeen.

Suppression repair has begun. Fire repair specialists are inspecting the fire area to evaluate damage caused by fire suppression. In the coming days, additional personnel and specialized equipment will be ordered to complete these repairs. This area has a rich fire history, complicated by challenging terrain, unique weather patterns, and culturally sensitive areas.

CAL FIRE Damage Inspection Teams are in the area as part of standard wildfire response protocols, assessing affected areas and determining whether any structures have been impacted by the fire.

WEATHER:
Winds will be light overnight with a chance for gusty outflow winds on Friday with highs in the mid-80s across the fire area. Active fire behavior is expected in the afternoon and evening due to hot and dry conditions.

EVACUATION, SHELTER, AND CLOSURE INFORMATION:
Visit Ready Inyo https://tr.ee/ReadyInyo for the most current and up to date Road Closures, Shelter Locations and Evacuation information.

Photo: Hotshots with the U.S. Forest Service – Sierra National Forest Kings River Hotshots return from a hard days work on the Rock Fire.