Report from Chris Costello Bishop Volunteer Fire Department public information officer

Silver fire

Bishop Fire was toned out a little after 2 yesterday afternoon. Upon arrival the fire was approximately 5 acres burning in heavy fuel. The winds were from the South, pushing the Fire to the North. There were multiple changes in the winds spreading the fire in all directions. Mid afternoon, the fire advanced quickly toward the community of Laws. Much of the area had no access other than by aircraft. Two helicopters were on site fighting the fire, and multiple agencies were on the highway and roads to stop the fire from reaching Laws. They did an outstanding job saving that community. In the early evening, the southeast progression of the fire was stopped, but the winds had been driving the fire to the west. As of one am this morning, when we returned to the station, the fire was still burning in heavy fuels through inaccessible terrain. Of concern today, a high wind Warning is in effect through 9:00 p.m. PDT, with southwest winds of 25 to 35 mph and gusts up to 65 mph expected.

Multiple local fire agencies from both Inyo and mono County were on site fighting the fire.

Evacuation orders remain in effect for Laws in Inyo County, Chalfant in Mono County, and the White Mountain Estates neighborhood.