Southern California: OSCC 07-10-09 0800 hrs
Shotgun Fire - CA-SQF-002025, Incident is being managed by a Type 3 organization. IC (Sanders) Fire remains 900 acres and is 50% MMA, 90 Total personnel assigned
Lion Fire - CA-SQF-2139 (Yearwood Type 3 IC) Fire has consumed 114 acres and is 57% MMA and is location 1 mile north of beach meadow on the Kern plateau in Tulare County. Fire is burning in Jeffrey pine, mix conifer, and lodge pole with montane chaparral fuel models: 5,8,9,10 and 11 and is creeping through mixed conifer forest with occasional single / small group tree torching - spotting up to 1/8 mile. A monitor/confine/contain strategy is being used with plan to herd the fire in a northerly direction to higher elevation and mixed conifer forest. Fire effects have been good. Incident is Lightning caused and is being managed for resources benefit purposes. Wind Speed (mph): 3-6 Temperature:77 Wind Direction: SW Relative Humidity:10-15% 40 Total personnel assigned.
Northern California: ONCC 07-10-09 0800 hrs
The Backbone Incident is 25 percent contained at 4,939 acres. Spike camps have been established. Red Spot fire (on the northern end of the incident) has doubled in size, and is burning in the Eight mile drainage.
Friday, July 10, 2009
GACC: This mornings News and Notes
NIFC: National Fire News Fire Information - NPL-2
(On a scale from 1 to 5)
Current hours for the National Fire Information Center are
(MST) 8:00 am - 4:30 pm, Monday - Friday
208-387-5050
This report will be updated Monday through Friday.
July 10, 2009
Light wildland fire activity was reported throughout the country. Ten new large fires were reported: four in Alaska, one each in Arizona and California, and four in Utah. One large fire was contained in Oregon.
Weather:
Hot and dry weather conditions will return to Alaska. The western states will be warm and dry through Saturday. Isolated thunderstorms are predicted over the nothwestern states, norhtwest California, northern Idaho, and Montana. Thunderstorms are also expected across the southwestern states, Colorado, and eastern Wyoming. Dry and windy conditions will extend from the Sierras into Colorado and Wyoming.
Source: National Interagency Coordination Center
| ||
Weekly statistics 7/10/09 | ||
Number of new large fires | 10 | States currently reporting large fires: |
Number of active large fires | 22 | |
Acres from active fires | 178,721 | |
Fires contained since 7/9/09 | 1 | |
Year-to-date large fires contained | 355 | |
Year-to-date statistics | ||
2009 (1/1/09 - 7/10/09) | Fires: 49,620 | Acres: 2,263,792 |
2008 (1/1/08 - 7/10/08) | Fires: 46,367 | Acres: 2,902,639 |
2007 (1/1/07 - 7/10/07) | Fires: 49,507 | Acres: 2,477,882 |
2006 (1/1/06 - 7/10/06) | Fires: 61,418 | Acres: 4,002,383 |
2005 (1/1/05 - 7/10/05) | Fires: 33,632 | Acres: 3,006,282 |
2004 (1/1/04 - 7/10/04) | Fires: 40,646 | Acres: 2,989,977 |
2003 (1/1/03 - 7/10/03) | Fires: 29,125 | Acres: 993,934 |
2002 (1/1/02 - 7/10/02) | Fires: 45,617 | Acres: 3,155,302 |
2001 (1/1/01 - 7/10/01) | Fires: 43,693 | Acres: 1,240,789 |
2000 (1/1/00 - 7/10/00) | Fires: 51,342 | Acres: 2,207,704 |
10-year average | ||
1999 - 2008 | Fires: 45,377 | Acres: 2,522,626 |
Current Wildland Fires | ||||
Alaska | Fires: | Acres: 164,117 | New fires: 4 | Fires contained: 0 |
| Minto Flat South (Fairbanks Area, Alaska Department of Forestry): 138,817 acres at zero percent contained. This fire is 12 miles northwest of Nenana. Structures remain threatened. Precipitation fell on the fire yesterday. Information: Call 907-832-1836 or visit the incident website. | ||||
| Shanta Creek (Kenai-Kodiak Area, Alaska Department of Forestry): 8,300 acres at zero percent contained. This fire is located 12 miles southeast of Soldotna. Residences are threatened. | ||||
| Rock Slough (Upper Yukon Zone, Bureau of Land Management): 14,500 acres at an unkown percent contained. This fire is 47 miles northeast of Fort Yukon. Moderate fire behavior was reported. | ||||
| NEW Eagle Creek 2 (Tanana Zone, Bureau of Land Management): 750 acres at an unknown percent contained. This fire is 23 miles east of Bettles.This incident is under a confine/contain management strategy. | ||||
| NEW Torment Creek (Tanana Zone, Bureau of Land Management): 700 acres at an unknown percent contained. This fire is 45 miles north of Tanana. This incident is under a confine/contain management strategy. | ||||
| NEW Eagle Creek (Tanana Zone, Bureau of Land Management): 600 acres at an unknown percent contained. This fire is 23 miles northeast of Bettles. This incident is under a confine/contain management strategy. | ||||
| NEW Crash Creek (Tanana Zone, Bureau of Land Management): 450 acres at an unknown percent contained. This fire is 43 miles northeast of Tanana. This incident is under a confine/contain management strategy. | ||||
Arizona | Fires: 5 | Acres: 3,455 | New fires: 1 | Fires contained: 0 |
| Deer (Colorado River Agency, Bureau of Indian Affairs): 402 acres at 90 percent contained. The fire is burning 10 miles west of Parker. Minimal fire activity was reported. | ||||
| Cross (Kaibab National Forest): 1,257 acres at zero percent contained. The fire is 18 miles southeast of Williams. Moderate fire activity was reported. Information: Call 928-635-8314 or visit the incident website. | ||||
| Prospect (Truxton Canon Agency, Bureau of Indian Affairs): 378 acres at 75 percent contained. The fire is burning 35 miles northeast of Peach Springs. | ||||
| Tucker (Coconino National Forest): 2,500 acres at an unknown percent contained. The previously reported fire is burning 15 miles northeast of Pine. Minimal fire activity was reported. | ||||
| NEW Fourth of July Complex (Coconino National Forest): 175 acres at an unknown percent contained. The complex is six miles southeast of Clints Well. The incident is under a confine/contain management strategy. | ||||
California | Fires: | Acres: | New fires: | Fires contained: 0 |
| Backbone (Six Rivers National Forest): 4,939 acres at 25 percent contained. This fire is 12 miles northeast of Willow Creek. Moderate fire activity continued. Information: Call 530-629-2118 or visit the incident website. | ||||
| Grouse (Yosemite National Park): 3,039 acres at 95 percent contained. This fire is located five miles east of El Portal. Fire activity was minimal. Information: Call 209-375-9574 or visit the incident website. | ||||
| Harden (Yosemite National Park): 1,661 acres at 95 percent contained. This fire is 12 miles southeast of Yosemite Valley. Information: Call 209-375-9574 or visit the incident website. | ||||
| NEW Lion (Sequoia National Forest): 114 acres at an unknown percent contained. This fire is 16 miles east of Cedar Slope. The incident is under a confine/contain management strategy. | ||||
Oregon | Fires: 1 | Acres: 578 | New fires: 0 | Fires contained: 1 |
| Black Butte II (Deschutes National Forest): 578 acres at 25 percent contained. The fire is located nine miles northwest of Sisters. Information: Visit the incident website. | ||||
| Rapids (Prineville District, Bureau of Land Management): The fire was contained at 430 acres. Information: Visit the incident website. | ||||
Texas | Fires: 1 | Acres: 1,802 | New fires: 0 | Fires contained: 0 |
| Reese Lane (Texas Forest Service): 1,802 acres at 80 percent contained. The fire is burning 10 miles east of Columbus. | ||||
Utah | Fires: 4 | Acres: 818 | New fires: 4 | Fires contained: 0 |
| NEW Joe's Hutch (Moab Field Office, Bureau of Land Management): 318 acres at an unknown percent contained. The fire is located 18 miles southeast of Sunnyside. Moderate fire activity was reported. | ||||
| NEW Lake Fork (Manti-Lasal National Forest): 260 acres at an unknown percent contained. The fire is 14 miles west of Emery. The incident is under a confine/contain management strategy. | ||||
| NEW Amos Canyon WFM (Fishlake National Forest): 140 acres at an unknown percent contained. The fire is two miles west of Aurora. The incident is under a confine/contain management strategy. | ||||
| NEW Horse (Zion National Park): 100 acres at 10 percent contained. The fire is 17 miles northeast of Toquerville.. The incident is under a confine/contain management strategy. | ||||
El Cajon: 16 Bug Bombs = Six homeless, Bugs dead
16 Bug Bombs Ignite Trailer Fire
No More Bugs! No More Trailer!
EL CAJON, Calif. -- A family of six is homeless after a fire at their trailer home in the Chieftain Trailer Park on Ballard street in El Cajon Thursday.
Fire investigators with the El Cajon Fire Department said the fire appears to have been caused by the homeowner setting off 16 bug bombs in an enclosed area, with fumes being ignited by an unknown heat source.
The homeowner suffered a slight hand injury trying to fight the flames with a garden hose. He was treated at scene by paramedic firefighters, fire officials said.
Damage was estimated at $30,000 for the trailer home and its contents, fire officials said.
The American Red Cross is now assisting the displaced family of two adults and four children with temporary housing.
Source: 10news.com - Link
Photo credit: 10news.com - Chief Mike Scott, El Cajon Fire Dept.
Saving Li'l Smokey - Orphaned black bear cub "Li'l Smokey" is now featured in children's book.
Saving Li'l Smokey
Almost one year to the day of his rescue from a Northern California wildfire, the orphaned black bear cub "Li'l Smokey" is now featured in an illustrated children's book.
"We're so pleased with how everything turned out; it has met and exceeded all of our expectations," said CalFire Forester Adam Deem, 33, who plucked the 6 month old severely burned bear cub from the ashes of the Moon fire in Shasta county last July.
"Probably the best part of the whole process was that we were able to keep the project entirely local," said Celeste Deem, 34, Adam's wife and co-author. "It's a local story with local authors and a local illustrator".
The book is illustrated by Ryan M. Lamb, a 15-year-old who will soon be a sophomore at Foothill High School in Redding.
"Ryan's art gave the book a really great look and feel," Adam said. "We are so proud of him and we know he has a promising future in art."
Finishing touches for the book were provided by InHouse Marketing of Redding, producers of Enjoy magazine.
The book was printed through CreateSpace, a self-publishing subsidiary of www.Amazon.com.
A series of public events are scheduled for the month of July.
Saving Li'l Smokey will first be featured during ArtHop this Saturday, July 11, at Sugarplum Cottage on Churn Creek Road in Redding, at 6 p.m.
Adam, Celeste and Ryan will be at the Art Hop to sell and sign books July 12 and 15, they will be at the Redding Library for the Summer Read-Aloud program.
The book can also be purchased on their Website.
For information visit www.lilsmokey.net.
Original Article source: http://www.redbluffdailynews.com/ci_12797647
CA-SQF- Lion - Wildland Use Fire - 114 acres
LION CA-SQF-2139
Start: 06/30/2009 0953
Cause: Lightning
Overhead Team Name: JIM YEARWOOD
Organization: Type 3 IC
Size: 114 ACRES % Cnt/MMA: 5,700 MMA
Location: 1 MILE NORTH OF BEACH MDW ON THE KERN PLATEAU
Latitude: 36° 7´ 51" Longitude: 118° 18´ 3"
Costs to Date: $104,000
Structure Threat: NONE
Structures Destroyed: NONE
Resources Committed:
Total Personnel: 40
Report Date: Jul 09, 2009 0930
Significant Events: PREPARATIONS ARE BEING MADE TO CLOSE ROADS AND A TRAIL IN THE FIRE AREA.
Remarks: THE LION WILDLAND FIRE IS BEING MANAGED FOR RESOURCES BENEFIT PURPOSES.
Observed Fire Behavior: FIRE CREEPING THROUGH MIXED CONIFER FOREST WITH OCCASIONAL SINGLE / SMALL GROUP TREE TORCHIING - SPOTTING UP TO 1/8 MILE.
Planned Actions: HOLDING TACTICS TO CHECK FIRE UNTIL RH'S INCREASE.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
NTSB: PROBABLE CAUSE OF STEVE FOSSETT 2007 PLANE CRASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 9, 2009
SB-09-35
NTSB DETERMINES THE PROBABLE CAUSE OF THE 2007 PLANE CRASH INVOLVING STEVE FOSSETT WAS AN ENCOUNTER WITH DOWNDRAFTS
Washington, DC – The National Transportation Safety Board has released its final report on the aviation accident that claimed the life of Steve Fossett.
The Board determined that the aircraft, a Bellanca 8KCAB-180 (N240R) struck mountainous terrain near Mammoth Lakes, California following an inadvertent encounter with downdrafts that exceeded the climb capability of the airplane. Contributing to the accident were the downdrafts, high density altitude, and mountainous terrain.
On September 3, 2007, Mr. Fossett, the only person aboard, departed Flying M Ranch, a private airport near Yerington, Nevada on a local, personal flight and failed to return. A month-long search by the Civil Air Patrol, state and county authorities, and friends of the accident pilot failed to locate the aircraft.
On October 7, 2008, a hiker found some of the pilot’s personal effects. “Once these items were found, the Safety Board launched a team to conduct the on-scene phase of the investigation,” said NTSB Acting Chairman Mark V. Rosenker. An aerial search located the airplane wreckage about 0.5 miles from the pilot’s personal effects, at an elevation of approximately 10,000 feet.
On the day of the accident, no emergency radio transmissions were received from the pilot, nor were any emergency locator transmitter signals received. After the wreckage was discovered, a review of radar data from September 2007 revealed a track that ended about 1 mile northwest of the accident site.
The Board's report, including the probable cause, is available on the NTSB's website at: http://www.ntsb.gov/ntsb/brief.asp?ev_id=20081007X17184&key=
NTSB Media Contact: Terry N. Williams (202) 314-6100
terry.williams@ntsb.gov
Earthquake 3.4 M - Offshore Northern California
Earthquake Details
| Magnitude | 3.4 |
|---|---|
| Date-Time |
|
| Location | 40.303°N, 124.559°W |
| Depth | 19.3 km (12.0 miles) |
| Region | OFFSHORE NORTHERN CALIFORNIA |
| Distances |
|
| Location Uncertainty | horizontal +/- 0.8 km (0.5 miles); depth +/- 0.3 km (0.2 miles) |
| Parameters | Nph= 21, Dmin=22 km, Rmss=0.05 sec, Gp=234°, M-type=local magnitude (ML), Version=1 |
| Source | |
| Event ID | nc71246191 |
CA-SCU- Alhambra - Wildland Fire(Grass) - 32 acres, 100%
Wildland Vegetation Fire
Update: 0111hrs - 20 acres, Establishing Unified Command w/ Con Fire, 1653 on scene,
Update: 0101hrs - 10 acres, 1684, 1641, 1470 on scene
IA: 0025hrs - Wildland Vegetation Fire - #CASCU-2882
Location: Martinez, Highway 4 X Alhambra , Franklin Canyon Road and McHarry Ranch Road.
Initial sizeup: 0044hrs - 10 acres, medium ROS, Grass
IC: Unified Command BC 1614, CAL FIRE / Contra Costa Fire department
Resources: Local Government, 5 SCU engines,2 LNU engines, 2 Dozers, 3 Delta crews, 1 Marin crew, 1629(prev), 5652 EBRP
Comms: SCU local, TAC 9
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
CA-RRU- Rabbit - Wildland Fire - 85 acres 60%
CAL FIRE/Riverside County Firefighters are on scene of a wildland fire with powerlines down on Hy 60 near Jack Rabbit Trail. No evacuations and no structure threats reported.
Update: 1635 hrs - Fire is 60% contained and approximately 85 acres. Full containment is expected around 6:00 p.m. this evening and full control by 6:00 a.m. 07/09/2009.
Update: 1600 hrs - Fire is approximately 35-40 acres, mainly burning on the north side of Hy 60. Road closures on Hy 60 will remain in effect until further notice.
Road closures: CHP and Beaumont PD will be closing Hy 60 in both directions between Beaumont and Gilman Springs Road.
Location: Hwy 60 West of the Jackrabit trail - West of Beaumont City
IA: First arriving units reported 5 acres burning at a moderate rate on both sides of Hy 60. Additional updates will be posted as information becomes available. No further updates will be posted this evening unless significant events occur.
Resources Assigned: Firefighters- 200, Engines- 13, Fire Crews- 8, Bulldozers- 2, Water Tenders- 4.
Helicopters: 1
Air Attack: 1
Air Tankers: 2
Overhead Personnel- 5
CA-LFD- Getty -Wildland fire (Heavy Brush) 90% contained
Los Angeles Wildland fire (Heavy Brush) near Getty Center / St. Mary' collegePhoto credit: (Emily Lerman/LAist) more great photos at LAist
Road closures: CHP officials are considering shutting down a portion of the 405 freeway. Sepulveda Boulevard has been closed between Sunset Boulevard and Mulholland Drive, near the Skirball Center.
Update: 2300hrs - 90% contained
Update: 1845hrs - Sepulveda Pass fire now reported 50% contained.
Update: 1445hrs - Fire moving away from Getty and Mount St. Mary's, as per LAFD
Update: 1415hrs -40+ acres; 0% containment; No structure threat at this time
Update: 1400hrs - 30-40 acres, Evacuations are underway "as a precautionary measure" at Mt. St. Mary's College, which is about a mile away from the Getty.
Update: 1355hrs - Fire 7 saying to IC 40 acres now, fire holding at existing control line on flank towards Mt. Saint Marys college.
Update: 1342hrs - 10 acres, west of 405, AA reports county helicopter is pulling water out of Stone Canyon reservoir, Getty Center art complex is evacuating 800 employees and an unknown number of guests they are being sent down the hill via tram in "an orderly fashion." ,405 north bound is open currently, /Getty Center Exit is closed.
Inital sizeup: 1245hrs -Approx 2 acres heavy brush, inaccessible terrain, Air show
Location: SB 405 X Sunset /1200 Getty Center Dr, Hills near the Getty Center in the Sepulveda Pass. (Near UCLA campus) FS 19;
Resources: 150+ firefighters, 4 helicopters
Comms: LAFD Ch:9,12
Cause: "accidental", sparks from weed abatement crews tools.
CHP CAD: Link
Incident: 1255 Type: Location: info as of: 7/8/2009 2:15:24 PM
ADDITIONAL DETAILS
1:51PM 56-405 REQ 1 ADD L UNIT WLA IS 10-6 ON FATAL ON S/END, REQ ANOTHER UNIT SHUT DOWN NB 405 SKIRBALL CENTER OFR - 56-171 ENRT
1:49PM FIRE IS REQING WE SHUT DOWN SB AND NB 405 SKIRBALL OFR PER 56-405
1:46PM 56-405 MADE CONTACT W/FIRE CHIEF AS OF NOW MAY ONLY SHUT DOWN #4 #5 LNS SB 405 JSO SKIRBALL, WAITING FOR CONFIRMATION
1:41PM PER 56-S20 -- ROLL 56-404 TO SHUT DOWN MAIN LINE SB 405 AT 101 DIVERT TRFC TO 101 -- 56-405 WHEN CLR CP TO SHUT DOWN TRANS RD FM EB 101 TO SB 405 -- 56-171 SHUT DOWN WB 101 TO SB 405 -- BRAVO3 SEP ONR TO SB 405
1:36PM CORR TO CLOSURE // NB 405 ON GETTY CENTER OFR-CLOSED ONLY AT THIS TIME
1:35PM PLS CONFIRM IF WE CAN ISSUE A SIG ALERT FOR UNK DURATION DUE TO THIS INCIDENT - THANKS
1:33PM TMC COPIES ALL LANES ON OFR CLOSED FROM NB
1:30PM NB ,,NOT ENTIRE FRWY JUAT GETT CENTER OFR ALL LANES
1:27PM INFO FOR TMC - HEAVY BACK UP INTO WEST VALLEYS AREA DUE TO FIRE PER 56-405
1:26PM LAPD #720 IS REQUESTING SB 405 AT 101 ALL LNS BE CLOSED DUE TO THIS FIRE AND SEPULVEDA ONR TO SB 405 ALSO CLOSE
1:23PM PER R/P FIRE HAS JUMPED JUST NORTH OF THE CYN
1:18PM ***** LA CITY FIRE REQ CHP SHUT DOWN ALL LANES OF THE NB 405 T GETTY CENTER DUE TO THIS FIRE **
1:09PM 97 W/LAFD AT GETTY CENTER P&R WILL BE 1023 WITH CHEIF FOR NOW FWY OPEN VIS HAZ ONLY
1:00PM 64-97 FIRE IS NOT AFFECTING FWY FD IS ACCESSING FROM SEP AT GETTY CENTER
12:58PM PER LAPD THEY HAVE FD ER TO BRUSH FIRE SB 405 JNO SUNSET
12:54PM PER SO236 AFFIR BRUSH FIRE ON HILL SIDE ABOVER GETTY CENTER
12:50PM PER SO236 1125 VIS HAZ ONLY
12:45PM THIS IS VISIBLE FROM FWY - INFO FOR RADIO
RESPONDING OFFICERS STATUS
1:27PM CHP Unit On Scene
1:27PM CHP Unit On Scene
1:31PM CHP Unit On Scene
1:55PM CHP Unit On Scene
2:05PM CHP Unit On Scene
2:09PM CHP Unit On Scene
2:11PM CHP Unit On Scene
2:18PM CHP Unit Enroute
CA-STF- Backbone - Wildland Fire (Timber) 4,884 acres 25%
Backbone Fire burns through many snagsCredit: Six Rivers National Forest
Update: 0620 - The Backbone Incident is now reported at 4,884 acres and 25 percent containment. NIMO Team assumes command at 0600. Swartzlander's Typ II IMT ordered. Crews will continue constructing line north on Backbone Ridge. Additional ridgetop contingency line construction continues on Fawn Ridge to the south and near Salmon Mountain near the Klamath National Forest boundary. 10 handcrews, 10 helicopters 3 engines,9 watertenders for a total of 412 firefighters.
Useless tiny Backbone Fire perimeter maps provided at Inciweb - Link
Incident Overview
This map depicts the fire area, bounded on the west by Backbone Ridge, bounded on the south by the north fork of the Horse Linto Creek drainage. The Red Spot, spot fire is located just south of Red Cap Lake north along the Backbone Ridge from the main fir
The Backbone Fire is burning on the Shasta-Trinity and Six Rivers National Forests approximately 36 miles northeast of Willow Creek in the Trinity Alps Wilderness. Formerly called the Lower Trinity 17, on the Six Rivers National Forest, the fire was one of many ignited by lightning on the evening of July first. Firefighters quickly extinguished most of the fires. The remaining lightning fires have all been declared controlled and contained at this time. Backbone was the only fire that continued to grow, until it overtook and combined with the Trinity Fire that was located on the Shasta-Trinity National Forests.
Due to the complexity of the fire situation the Atlanta based National Incident Management Organization (NIMO) assumes command of the fire under Incident Commander George Custer Wednesday July 8th. The fire is burning within the footprint of the 1999 Megram Fire. Standing dead snags, dead and down logs are actively burning on exposed southwest facing slopes.
Forest Service officials are working closely with the Hoopa Tribe and keeping tribal members and fire service personnel updated on the Backbone Fire. Protection of cultural sites within the fire area is a priority.
Rafting in Willow Creek is still permitted. There is a "No Stop Zone" from the mouth of Willow Creek to 1 mile downriver. Visitors are asked to float through with caution, due to the helibase located there. Rafting and rafting guide services are still operating. In the interim Kimtu Beach access will be open. Hawkins Bar free day use river access is also open.
Closures: Roads and trails in the fire area are now closed to the public. The Horse Ridge National Recreation Trail, Salmon Summit National Scenic Trail, and Mill Creek, Tish Tang, and Red Cap trails are now closed, as well as Bear Hole, Grizzly Camp and the Willow Creek Big Rock Day Use Area and river access.
Basic Information
Incident Type: Wildland Fire
Cause: Lightning
Date of Origin: Wednesday July 01st, 2009 aprox 12:00 AM
Location: Trinity Alps Wilderness - GPS 41.04 latitude, -123.464 longitude
Incident Commander: Fred Hays - Transition today
Current Situation
Total Personnel: 412
Size: 4,848 acres
Percent Contained: 25%
Fuels Involved: The fire is burning in timber (litter and understory), a heavy accumulation of dead and down fuels, as well as standing dead snags. The Backbone Fire is located in an area that was severely burned in the 1999 Megram Fire.
Fire Behavior: No overnight fire observatios. Fire behavior yesterday was moderate mostly backing spread from log to log. Some spotting occurred with the increased winds, requiring crews to work indirect on the south flank.
Significant Events: Today the NIMO team assumed command of the Backbone Fire. Kent Swartzlander's type II Incident Management Team has been ordered and will be transitioning in with the NIMO team this afternoon. Crews will continue line construction to the north on Backbone Ridge. Crews are working on additional ridgetop contingency line construction at Fawn Butte on the Shasta-Trinity National Forest and near Salmon Mountain on Klamath National Forest boundary.
Outlook
Planned Actions: Firefighters continue to construct and improve line on the west flank of the fire, north along Backbone Ridge.
Growth Potential: There is high growth potential for this fire.
Terrain Difficulty: The difficulty of the terrain in the fire area is extreme.
Remarks: The incident command post has been moved from the Lower Trinity District Office to Willow Creek Veterans Park.
Swartzlander's Type II Incident Management Team has been ordered to work under the NIMO. The current strategy for fire containment is to keep the Backbone Fire within the Trinity Alps Wilderness.
Current Weather:
Wind Conditions 5 to 7 mph NE
Temperature 46 degrees
Humidity 55%
Backbone Fire Information: - http://www.inciweb.org/incident/1716/
Aircraft Down: Crop Duster Crashes In Stanislaus County
Current Situation: Pilot self extricated from aircraft, no injuries, no fire
IA: Aircraft Down - Helicopter down on side
Location: Tegner Road X Simmons Road. Turlock, Stanislaus County
Cause: Under Investigation
Stanislaus National Forest: Irresponsible motorcycles damage high meadow
Stanislaus National Forest seeks information on Motorcycle group with Blue pickup truck at Groundhog Meadow near Herring Creek on June 24
Meadow Damage Destroys Habitat, Sets Back Study
Sonora, July 1, 2009 - Stanislaus National Forest Supervisor Susan Skalski announced today that scientists discovered serious damage to a high elevation meadow undergoing a five year study which included monitoring the habitat of the Yosemite Toad. Upon arriving at Groundhog Meadow near Herring Creek on June 24, Forest Service researchers saw a blue pickup truck being loaded with motorcycles and making a hasty retreat. The team entered the meadow on foot to find it terribly scarred with deep wheel ruts from spins and zigzags across the meadow.
This illegal and irresponsible type of activity damages habitat and causes serious harm to the amphibian wildlife in meadows. The deep cuts drain the shallow layer of water off the meadow, stranding the eggs and tadpoles living there.
"At this stage there is very little we can do to save them. By the time restoration work is complete the meadow will be dry and the fledgling life is lost," said Kimberly Peterson, biological team crew leader. "It is just horrible, the damage done to the sensitive ecosystem at Groundhog Meadow, not to mention the research completed over the last three years of a five year study is severely compromised."
The meadow under study is one of several included in a comprehensive analysis to determine trends and affects to amphibian populations in the Sierra Nevada. Other study sites are located in the Sierra National Forest and in Yosemite National Park. The research project is a joint collaborative effort, combining the efforts of scientists from the Forest Service Pacific Southwest Sierra Nevada Research Center, University of California at Berkeley, and Yosemite National Park.
Melted snow left shallow water, creating what should have been an ideal wet habitat for sensitive species when the research team arrived to start its seasonal work. However, the meadow had been breached from several directions; in some cases the vehicles had crossed stream channels. Fencing work had begun last season, but was not finished before the snow fell. Wire that had been strung had been cut required splicing repairs.
"People enjoy the forest in a variety of ways, and it is their responsibility to know what the impact is to the land from their use and how to prevent resource and environmental damage," said Skalski.
The Forest Service is looking for those who are responsible for this incident so that restitution can be made. If anyone has information about this, or any similar incident, please contact the California Fish and Game Environmental Crime Hotline at 1-888-334-2258 or the Stanislaus National Forest at (209) 532-3671.
Source: SNF News release - Link
Yosemite Fires – Update #22 – July 8, 2009
Activity on the Grouse and Harden fires in Yosemite National Park has slowed significantly with the fires reaching the established boundaries that managers planned for the incidents.
The Grouse Fire is three miles southwest of Yosemite Valley and north of Glacier Point Road. The Grouse Fire is 3,029 acres and 93 percent contained.
The Harden Fire on the north side of the park, west of Harden Lake and northwest of White Wolf is currently 1,661 acres and 95 percent contained.
Preparations are in place to transition management of the fires from the South Central Sierra Type II Incident Management Team back to the local unit on July 9. “It was a great opportunity for our team to assist Yosemite National Park with the management of these fires,” said Allen Johnson, Incident Commander for the South Central Sierra team. “The park had a good plan in place when we arrived and we were able to provide the support they needed to continue to implement that plan safely and effectively.”
The fires continue to meet managers’ objectives for the incidents. The stated protection and resource objectives include restoring fire dependent forest systems, managing smoke production, reducing hazardous fuel accumulation, protecting wildlife habitat and preserving cultural and natural resources. Importantly, meeting the hazardous fuel accumulation objective will help prevent the chance for severe fire occurrence in the future.
Even though the fires are reaching the boundaries that managers set for the incidents and the percentage contained is increasing, the fires are not out yet. Fire activity will continue within the perimeters for some time.
On both fires, personnel will continue to reinforce and hold containment lines and patrol for lingering hot spots outside containment lines that could ignite.
Weather forecasters advise fire officials that several low pressure systems are heading toward the area mid-week, which may bring cooler temperatures and possible strong winds.
Travelers will continue to see smoke along the roads. For firefighter and driver safety, please use caution.
Wilderness Fire Unit:
Grouse (37 41.445 x 119 41.017; 6500’, Mariposa Co.), started May 30. It is approximately 3,029 acres and 93 percent contained. There are 227 personnel committed to the Grouse Fire. The planned management area for the incident is about 3,050 acres.
Harden (37 53.624 x 119 42.221; 7800’, Tuolumne Co); Lightning-caused, probably on June 8. It is north of White Wolf, west of Harden Lake and within the 1996 Ackerson fire perimeter. It is 1,661 acres, with 95 percent containment and burning mostly in brush and Red Fir. Little growth is expected.
Fire Information: Please call 209/375-9574 and visit Inciweb @ http://www.inciweb.org/incident/1704, and http://www.inciweb.org/incident/1708
For Additional Information: The park website, www.nps.gov/yose/fire; or email at: yose_fire_information@nps.gov.
Yosemite National Park
Fire Education Office
P.O. Box 577
Yosemite, CA 95389
209/372-0480 phone or 209/372-0491
National Park Service
U.S. Department of the Interior
EXPERIENCE YOUR AMERICA
The National Park Service cares for special places saved by the American people so that all may experience our heritage.
CZU- San Mateo County - Controlled burn today @ Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve
Photo from Mount Hamilton WebcamLooking across the valley at fire in center of view
Credit: Bay Area Web Cams - Link
What: CAL FIRE and the Mid-peninsula Regional Open Space District are planning a controlled burn today in San Mateo County
Where: Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve near the intersection of Skyline Boulevard and Page Mill Road. Google Map - Link
Blacklining, a control line has been completed around the intended burn perimeter, to ensure that the burn is contained within the designated area.
When: Today - Controlled burn is expected to be completed in one day, but may extend to two or be rescheduled depending on weather conditions and availability of fire personnel and equipment. Note: The preserve will be closed for the day and there may be delays along Skyline Boulevard.
Who: Fire personnel and equipment on-hand for the burn include four MROSD patrol units and a water tender, five CAL FIRE engines, a La Honda Fire Brigade engine and water tender, a King’s Mountain Volunteer Fire Brigade engine, a Ben Lomond Fire Camp Crew and a firefighting helicopter.
Why: “The controlled burn improves fire safety by reducing dry vegetation and creating a firebreak along this prominent ridgeline in San Mateo County. The burn also provides valuable live fire training to local emergency response agencies, who work together when incidents occur on Open Space District lands and in surrounding communities,” said CalFire Unit Chief John Ferreira in a semi-prepared statement.
Controlled burns are one of several tools MROSD officials say they use to manage grasslands in the Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve for the health of the environment and to reduce fire hazard.
Four controlled burns have taken place at Russian Ridge since 1998, and have proven effective in controlling brush, reducing invasive plants such as Harding grass, and increasing the abundance and diversity of native California grasses and wildflowers, which are adapted to periodic fire.
Related MROSD Notice: As part of the Grassland Management Study at Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve, the District will be scheduling a prescribed burn for one or two days in the time periods between July 7 and July 10 or July 13 through July 17, 2009. The preferred day is Wednesday, July 8th. The burn is anticipated to be completed in one day, but it may be necessary to extend this to two days if local weather conditions change.
The entire preserve will be closed during the burn.
Controlled Burn Planned for Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve
posted 6/26/2009
Press Release: Controlled Burn Planned for July 8
posted 7/6/2009
RRU - Engine crashes on Robert Road - NO INJURIES
A Riverside County Fire Department vehicle crashed this morning along Ramon Road in Thousand Palms, No injuries.
The collision was reported at 7:56 a.m. at Robert Road.
No further on California Highway Patrol CADTuesday, July 7, 2009
Santa Rosa Fire: First day of nine-months of rolling station closures
First Santa Rosa fire station shuttered for two days to save money
Fire station 10, Santa Rosa’s outpost for fighting fires and providing medical aid, is shuttered today, the first day of nine-months of rolling station closures expected to save the city over $1 million.
The station on Corporate Center Parkway will reopen at 8 a.m. on Thursday. At the same time, fire station 11 on Lewis Road will close for 48 hours.
The stations will trade off closures through next spring.
Fire Chief Bruce Varner said the two stations were chosen for rotating closures because other fire stations are located close by, minimizing the impact of the closure.
“Every day signs will be posted and the barricades will be down over the doors showing the stations are closed,” Varner said.
The closures will increase sensitive response times to some emergencies because fire crews will be “coming from a farther distance.”
Varner discouraged anyone from going to a fire department for medical aid, as sometimes happens.
“It’s better to dial 911 rather than running to a fire station anyway,” he said.
Should a person arrive at a shuttered station for help, an emergency phone to call 911 is located outside each station, he said.
Original source article: Pressdemocrat.com - Link
U.S. Coast Guard and the Redwood City Fire Dept rescue 2 souls in the SF Bay
 |  Eleventh Coast Guard District | |
| NEWS RELEASE | DATE: CONTACT: | July 7, 2009 Lt.j.g. Simone Mausz (415) 740-4364 |
| Waterside rescue near San Mateo Bridge | ||
|
SAN MATEO, Calif. - The U.S. Coast Guard and the Redwood City Fire Dept rescued a man and woman stranded in the water south of the San Mateo Bridge, today. At approximately 3:11 p.m., Coast Guard Sector San Francisco received a report from the man in water from an overturned catamaran. He was able to hail the Coast Guard over Channel 16 from a hand-held radio. The woman passenger was holding onto the hull of the overturned boat. A Coast Guard HH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew, from Air Station San Francisco, was dispatched to the scene and arrived at approximately 3:45 p.m. At the same time the helicopter crew hoisted the man from the water, the Redwood City Fire Department was able to rescue the woman clinging to the vessel. No injuries were reported and both persons were wearing dry suits. Thankfully both members from the vessel had the proper safety gear on hand such as immersion suits to protect them from the cold and a hand held radio, which attributed to the speedy rescue. ### | ||
Source: http://www.piersystem.com/go/doc/823/286832/
Anderson Fire Protection District Fire Chief Joe Piccinini resigned
Anderson fire chief resigns
* By Michael Woodward
ANDERSON -- Fire Chief Joe Piccinini resigned from the Anderson Fire Protection District, the district board announced tonight.
Dated July 1, Piccinini's resignation marked the end of his tenure in Anderson, which began October 15, 2007.
Piccinini was placed on paid leave May 12 and an investigation into the chief's management of the district ensued. The district hired Anderson's former police chief, Neil Purcell, to conduct the investigation. For weeks, Piccinini's attorney and board lawyers have gone back and forth as they crafted the terms of his resignation.
"It's been a stressful, long eight weeks on my wife and I," Piccinini said during a phone interview following the meeting. "We are glad it is behind us and look forward to the future."
Chairman Keith Webster read a prepared statement signed by Piccinini, who was not present at the meeting. "I would like to thank you for the opportunity to serve the people of Anderson; however at this time, different professional and personal opportunities have presented themselves and I must resign my position with the Anderson Fire Protection District," the statement said.
All details related to the investigation and terms of any agreements between Piccinini and the board are to remain confidential, board chairman Keith Webster said.
Board members said now they will begin selecting Piccinini's replacement. Andy Nichols will continue to serve as acting fire chief.
Source: Redding.com - Link
CA-TLC/TUU-Johnson - Wildland Fire - 10 acres
CA-TLC/TUU-Johnson : Tulare County wildland Fire
View CA-TLC/TUU-Johnson in a larger map
Note: New start reported by County Patrol 3 in same vicinity along Virginia at the railroad tracks, assignment started
Update: 1700 hrs - IC reports Forward progress has been stopped, both ATs released
Update: 1630 hrs - IC reports Fire is holding around 10 acs, should be contained within 2 hrs, fire perimeter is ringed with retardant.
Update: 1600 hrs - AA on-scene reporting 10 acres with slow rate of spread with a potential of 50 ac.
Location: Johnson Dr X Rd 152, F-1, Woodlake Area, Access off Ave 416,
Initial sizeup: Patrol 4 reports 15 acs, Mod ROS, Light Fuels, No structure threat at this time, AA reports Potential for 50 acs
Resources committed:
Engines - 4150, 4151, 4162, 4172, 4163, 4181; County Engines - Pat. 4, Pat. 8, Pat.11; FKU -4373
WT-3, Orange Cove-66
Dozers - 4141, 4143
Crews - Mt. Home Crews - 1, 2; Miramonte Crew -4, 1
AA-430
ATs -76, 78
Helo. - 522
Comms: Batt.-4111 / County Batt.-1 / 4122
Local - 151.190 / 154.010
Tac-3 - 151.175
Air - 151.310
Air/Grnd - 151.220
CA-RRU- ELM - WUI Fire - 270 acres, 100%
CARRU-59617 - CAL FIRE/Riverside County Firefighters are on scene of a wild land fire near the intersection of Ida Avenue X Elm Street in Cabazon.
CA-RRU- ELM - WUI Fire
View CA-RRU- ELM - WUI Fire - Structure Threat -270 acres, 0% in a larger Google map
Heads Up! Possible Foen winds this evening
Update: 0830 hrs 07/08/2008- Fire is 100% contained. Full control is expected by 6:00 p.m. this evening. Three engines and four fire crews are assigned to the incident today for mop-up and patrolling containment lines.
Update: 2100 hrs - Fire is 60% contained and estimating full containment by 8:00 a.m. on 7/8/2009. Full control is anticipated by 6:00 p.m. on 7/8/2009.
Update: 1850 hrs - Fire is now approximately 270 acres.
Update: 1700 hrs - Fire is now approximately 150 acres with 0% containment. Fire is backing down the hill towards homes in Cabazon South OP's just dispatched about 3 type 1 Strike Teams code 3 to the fire. H-538 off base Ramona en-route to the fire, ETA 35 minutes. H-554 is committed.
Update: 1600 hrs - IC req additional handcrews. AT- 71 on the way
Update: 1545 hrs - Fire is approximately 110 acres and burning in steep, rugged terrain. No structures threatened, no evacuations.
Initial sizeup: First arriving units reported two acres burning midslope against the wind with a potential of 2000+ acres.
Resources Assigned:
Firefighters: 200 RVC
Overhead Personnel: 6
Engines: 11
Fire Crews: 10
Water Tenders: 3
Bulldozers: 2
Air Tankers: 4
Helicopters: 5
Air Attack: 1
Comms: RRU 2 / CDF TAC 22
Weather: Cabazon Temp 88. RH 29 winds at 16 mph
Cause: CAL FIRE Investigators have released the cause of the Elm Fire as vehicle-caused. A 23-year old male from Beaumont was cited for a misdemeaner violation "causing a fire by a negligent action" under the Health and Safety Code section 13001. The male subject was riding a motorcycle in the wildland area south of the community of Cabazon when he lost control of the motorcycle and "laid it down". The hot exhaust ignited the dry vegetation and the fire spread quickly due to the winds. The subject ran for help at a residence after trying to extinguish the fire. The subject had been warned several weeks ago by the Riverside County Sheriff's Department that riding motorcycles in the wildland was not legal. The motorcycle was impounded by CAL FIRE Investigators and the department will pursue civil cost recovery from the subject for the cost associated with suppressing the fire.
RED FLAG WARNINGS EXTENDED UNTIL 2300 HOURS
ALL RED FLAG WARNINGS REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 11 PM PDT THIS EVENING.
SOUTHWEST TO WEST WINDS OF 15 TO 25 MPH WITH GUSTS TO 40 MPH WILL COMBINE WITH HUMIDITY OF 8 TO 15 PERCENT SOUTH OF RAVENDALE TO CREATE DANGEROUS FIRE WEATHER CONDITIONS THROUGH THIS EVENING.
HEADS UP! CRITICAL FIRE WEATHER
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DHS: Obama Nominate's Kelvin Cochran as new U.S. Fire Administrator
Secretary Napolitano Applauds President Obama's Intent to Nominate Kelvin Cochran as U.S. Fire Administrator
U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Janet Napolitano applauds President Obama’s intent to nominate Kelvin Cochran— who brings decades of experience in preventing and responding to fires and emergencies—as U.S. Fire Administrator.
“Kelvin will play a vital role in strengthening our fire prevention and emergency management capabilities across the country,” said Secretary Napolitano. “Working closely with our state and local partners, Kelvin will lead our nationwide efforts to prepare for and respond to fire emergencies.”
As U.S. Fire Administrator, Cochran is charged with overseeing, coordinating, and directing national efforts to prevent fires and improve fire response. Cochran will oversee fire prevention and safety education programs and professional development opportunities for emergency responders at all levels of government.
Kelvin Cochran
Cochran has twenty-eight years of experience in the fire service including fire fighting, emergency medical services, hazardous materials, public education, research and development, personnel management, and administration, with a specialization in training and strategic planning.
Most recently, Cochran served as Fire Chief for the City of Atlanta Fire Rescue Department, where he coordinated homeland security and emergency preparedness initiatives between the City of Atlanta and the Atlanta Fulton County Emergency Management Agency (AFCEMA) and oversaw 35 fire stations providing fire, rescue and emergency medical services.
Previously, he served in the Shreveport, La. fire department as a Firefighter, Assistant Chief Training Officer, and Fire Chief. Cochran also served as President of the Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association, the 1st Vice President of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), and Vice Chairman of Volunteers of America (VOA).
Shasta-Trinity National Forest fire started by a Bear
Animal Electrocuted After Climbing Utility PoleREDDING, Calif. -- A bear cub sparked a fire in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest when it climbed a power pole and was electrocuted.
The fire burned across Highway 299 from the Big Bar Ranger Station over the weekend.
The bear did not survive.
Source: ksbw.com - Link
Earthquake 3.6 M - North California coast, Ferndale
== PRELIMINARY EARTHQUAKE REPORT ==
Version #4: This report supersedes any earlier reports of this event.
This event has been reviewed by a seismologist.
A minor earthquake occurred at 7:54:49 AM (PDT) on Tuesday, July 7, 2009.
The magnitude 3.6 event occurred 99 km (61 miles) WNW of Ferndale, CA.
The hypocentral depth is 7 km ( 5 miles).
| Magnitude | 3.6 - regional moment magnitude (Mw) |
|---|---|
| Time | Tuesday, July 7, 2009 at 7:54:49 AM (PDT) Tuesday, July 7, 2009 at 14:54:49 (UTC) |
| Distance from | Ferndale, CA - 99 km (61 miles) WNW (287 degrees) Humboldt Hill, CA - 100 km (62 miles) W (277 degrees) Bayview, CA - 102 km (63 miles) W (275 degrees) Eureka, CA - 103 km (64 miles) W (273 degrees) Sacramento, CA - 420 km (261 miles) NW (308 degrees) |
| Coordinates | 40 deg. 50.2 min. N (40.837N), 125 deg. 23.1 min. W (125.386W) |
| Depth | 7.4 km (4.6 miles) |
| Location Quality | Poor |
| Location Quality Parameters | Nst= 49, Nph= 49, Dmin=97 km, Rmss=0.2 sec, Erho=2.1 km, Erzz=31.6 km, Gp=237.6 degrees |
| Event ID# | nc71245036 |
| Additional Information | 2-degree map Google Earth KML (Requires Google Earth.) Did you feel it? ShakeMap shaking intensity maps Waveforms Waveforms for ShakeMap NCSS Moment Tensor Solution |
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