Incident Update: Wheeler Fire

August 13, 2026

Quick Facts

Location: Wheeler Crest, Mono County Ca.

Start Date: August 10, 2026

Cause: Lightning

Size in acres: 1 acre

Percent contained: 0%

Total personnel: 50

Topline Highlights

Fire is highly visible from Communities and Highway 395

Current Situation:

The Wheeler fire is burning on Wheeler Ridge in a steep and rough cliff area. Access has been difficult even with helicopters. A full suppression strategy is being implemented using aviation assets for direct extinguishment and ground resources for indirect confinement. Three hand crews and various equipment are currently installing control lines in lower and more accessible terrain between the fire and values at risk. Helicopters are being used for bucket drops and are scouting potential options for helispots to insert crews closer to the fire edge.

Weather:

There is a chance of showers and thunderstorms today. High around 58. Winds 10-15 mph out of the South. Warmer and sunny weather expected tomorrow and through the weekend.

Evacuations, Shelters, Closures:

None.

About Inyo National Forest

wheeler 2 scaled