Updated
Updated · CBS New York · Aug 13
Big Sur Timber Fire Grows to 4,245 Acres as 1,400 Firefighters Push 7% Containment
Updated
Updated · CBS New York · Aug 13

Big Sur Timber Fire Grows to 4,245 Acres as 1,400 Firefighters Push 7% Containment

3 articles · Updated · CBS New York · Aug 13

Summary

  • 4,245 acres had burned in Big Sur by Thursday morning, with the Timber Fire 7% contained after overnight crews worked the southern flank near Partington Ridge and checked its spread toward Highway 1.
  • Nearly 90% humidity under a heavy marine layer helped firefighters protect structures west of Highway 1 and complete a containment line from Coast Ridge Road to the Big Sur River, though higher elevations kept burning actively.
  • Highway 1 remained closed between mile markers 45.1 and 37, while evacuation orders covered five Monterey County zones and warnings stayed in place for five more; Carmel Middle School was serving as a shelter.
  • More than 1,400 personnel were assigned to the fire, which started Aug. 8 southeast of Loma Vista, and officials warned a warmer, drier weekend could challenge progress as the cause remains under investigation.

Insights

How are unpredictable marine layers and erratic winds complicating the battle against Big Sur's rapidly expanding Timber Fire?
With iconic landmarks threatened, what strategies are firefighters using to protect Big Sur's historic sites from the massive blaze?
How will the indefinite closure of Highway 1 due to the Timber Fire impact California's coastal tourism economy?