Black Fire burned a quarter million acres in less than 20 days
Latest infrared data shows that yesterday Black Fire slowed its spread, burning about 8,000 acres, but the total affected area grew to 249,656 acres. Even with such rate Black Fire activity is significantly higher than Calf Canyon-Hermits Peak Fire, and still might become the largest in state recorded history by the next week.
Tuesday's weather will bring slightly warmer temperatures, slightly lower relative humidity and lighter winds. Crews will continue patrolling and mopping up, constructing direct and indirect control lines, prepping new line where needed, and using point protection tactics to protect private property, critical infrastructure and other values at risk.
Slash chipping will continue. Hand and aerial ignitions will be used where needed to strengthen protection of values at risk and burn out fuels between constructed firelines and the main fire. Structure triage assessments and identification of values at risk will continue.
High temperatures on Tuesday will be a little warmer than Monday, climbing into the mid to upper 80s, with relative humidity values in the single digits. Moderating winds will reduce fire behavior along the east and south flanks. Still expect active fire behavior along the southeast and southern flanks of the fire. Within the Silver Fire footprint, upslope spread will increase where fuels and topography align. Fire will continue to consume interior fuels along the north flank. Continued growth to the south and east.