[pct-l] Mountain Fire Update

[Stephen Clark]

Mountain Fire Update #9 July 21, 2013 6:00 AM

*Incident:* Mountain Wildfire
*Released:* 32 min. ago

*FIRE UPDATE #9July 21, 2013 6:00 A.M.*

*Current Situation: * The anticipated rain and thunderstorms materialized
early morning, bringing 1.5 inches of rain as measured at the Palm Springs
Aerial Tramway. With diminished fire activity, firefighters made great
progress with line construction particularly along the East side towards
Palm Springs. Although conditions were hazardous and some crews were taken
off the line due to the severe weather, firefighters continue to fight the
fire aggressively where possible. Today’s priority for fire operations is
focused at the northernmost part of the fire with crews at the Palm Springs
Aerial Tramway constructing direct hand line at the fire’s edge to reduce
the threat to Idyllwild and surrounding communities.

*Changing Weather*: Rain is forecast to continue throughout the day with
rain increasing and thunderstorms possibly developing in the afternoon.
Thunderstorms could bring strong downdraft winds and lightning. A flash
flood watch is in place and firefighters remain alert to the changing
weather conditions.

*Evacuations: *Evacuations were lifted yesterday for the communities of
Trails End and Camp Joe Scherman. Apple Canyon, Bonita Vista, Fobes Canyon,
and Pine Springs Ranch areas are also open to residents. The Evacuation
Warning issued for Pine Cove is still in place. All other Evacuation
Orders, including Idyllwild and Fern Valley, are still in place.

*Evacuation Centers: *Evacuation centers established by the Red Cross
(1-888-831-0031) are located at Hemet High School and Hamilton High School.
The Beaumont High School evacuation center will be closing at noon today.

*Road Closures: * Fobes Ranch Road is now open to traffic. State Highway 74
remains open. State Highway 243 is closed from the intersection of State
Highway 74 to the Nature Center, south of Pine Cove.

*Fire Facts:*

27,245 acres at 49% containment

2,678 personnel including 68 crews, 89 engines, 11 dozers, and 20
helicopters

23 structures have been destroyed, including 7 residences during the first
day of the fire

Total cost to date is 19.9 million dollars

The cause of the fire is currently under investigation

The latest fire information can be found on Inciweb at
http://inciweb.org/incident/3516