The lightning-caused Midnight Fire, which started July 10, continues to burn near Forest Service Road (FSR) #284 (Elk City Wagon Road) 1 mile east of China Point, 3 miles Northwest of Pilot Knob near Mountain House Site. It is estimated to have consumed at least 179 acres and is approximately 38% contained.
Crews were able to finish the hand line with cooler temperatures and rain. By utilizing surrounding land features, crews connected the hand line to the contingency line. Challenges remain with rain, heavy vegetation, and steep terrain on the contingency line and work remains slow. There are currently 132 personnel, two (2) engines, two (2) dozers, four (4) masticators, four (4) water tenders, and one (1) crew working the fire. Crews will continue to work the fire with the objective of containing the fire to the current footprint. Work continues with full suppression where feasible due to steep terrain and hazardous snags. Firefighters will work to actively contain the fire while protecting nationally significant cultural resources, timber, recreation, and other environmental and social values.
The Remote Automatic Weather Station (RAWS) across the fire area reported an average of 0.25” of rain yesterday. Fire behavior will be minimal with rain showers in the morning and afternoon. Temperatures will be in the low 70s with humidity in the 60s. Patchy fog has been observed in low-lying areas in river and stream bottoms.
Air quality information: AirNow Interactive Map (epa.gov)
CLOSURES AND SPECIAL MESSAGES
Please travel with caution as dense patches of fog have been observed. There are currently no road closures in place. motorists are encouraged to avoid the road if possible due to heavy traffic and poor visibility. Heavy equipment traffic is expected to be heavy along FSR #244 (Lightning Creek Road) and FSR #284 (Elk City Wagon Road) between China Point and Lytle Cow Camp.