The Willow Fire is located on the northern edge of the North Fork Fire Footprint from 2001 and is in steep and rugged terrain. This requires hand crews to hike into the area and be supported by helicopters and air tankers. As the fire continues to move into this previously burned area, the resistance to control along the flanks increase. This is due to the concentrations of brush and larger dead timber debris, intermingled with a concentration of tree snags.

Firefighting strategy on the southern flank continues be direct. Crews work directly on the fires edge where safe to do so to prevent the fire from moving further south towards the communities of South Fork and Cascadel Woods. Further south a contingency line from the 2001 North Fork Fire is being opened up and utilized in the same manner to protect those communities.

Fire crews continue to build direct lines on the north flank in an attempt to tie in to the road system at the top of the ridge on the east side of the fire. Previously constructed fuel breaks on the northern edge are being scouted with a potential to use this as another contingency line.

The use of aircraft, both helicopters and tankers continue to be used to support ground crews in their efforts of direct attack. A portable retardant plant will be utilized to enhance the effectiveness of air resources and reduce the turnaround time of helicopters.

Today the expected high pressure system has moved into the area bringing much warmer temperatures to the fire area. Monsoonal moisture may produce dry thunderstorms Thursday turning wet Friday and Saturday.

As the Willow Fire continues to burn, smoke will be impacting local communities. Smoke is typically greater in the morning and evening hours. Plan outdoor activities for times and places with low smoke levels. Up-slope breezes occur during the day, which will often take smoke into higher elevations. In the evening, these winds change direction and bring smoke back down slope to lower elevations.

A Willow Fire information phone number has been established for further information about the fire. That number is (559) 877-7449.

Evacuations

– The Central Camp area and Douglas Station Rd from Trails End was evacuated due to the fire.
– The American Red Cross has set up an evacuation center and is located at the Oakhurst Community Center, 39800 Road 425 B in Oakhurst, CA.

Closures

Campgrounds – Gagges, Whiskers, and Whiskey Falls are closed.

Willow Canyon Rd and Douglas Station Rd are closed at Hwy 274. Beasore Rd is closed at Central Camp Rd. Autumn Ridge Rd is closed at Hwy 223. Douglas Station Rd is closed at Trails End.

Equipment

Engines 120
Hand Crews 32
Dozers 14
Water Tenders 21
Helicopters 9
Tankers available on request 4