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SWIMT 1 Assumes Command of the Fire, Highway 70 Open with 26% Containment Achieved

Highlights: Southwest Incident Management Team 1 assumed command of the fire at 0600 today. Resulting from the hard work of the crews on the incident, SWIMT1 is happy to announce containment of 26% as of 10:00 am today. A combination of air and ground resources slowed the progress of the Toyo Fire yesterday with crews and engines working to improve handline today. Highway 70 is now open for public use, but motorists are urged to use caution as emergency crews will remain working in the area.

Fire Activity: The north to northeast portion of the fire has minimal road access and was the most active section of the fire yesterday, however crews utilized the support of air resources to impede the progress of the fire. Today, ground resources will continue building and connecting existing handline while utilizing natural features to keep the fire from spreading. Additionally, crews on the southeast portion have held the fire in place through a previous burnout operation off the 400 road. They are also utilizing natural features, such as the riverbed. The objective for the west to northwest section is to prevent fire spreading further north. Resources will utilize roadways and riverbeds as containment features, as well as secure fire line through cold trailing and the construction of additional handline. A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is still in place over the fire.

Weather: Today is expected to be sunny and warm with temperatures ranging from 92-95 degrees and relative humidity at 9-12%. Winds will be out of the west at 5-10 mph with gusts around 15 mph. Winds are expected to increase on Wednesday.

Smoke: Smoke will be visible from Highway 70 and throughout the fire area today. Highway 70 users should use caution as smoke could still impact the roadway.

Closures: Highway 70 has been reopened for public use and Route 3 continues to remain open.

Evacuations: Current evacuation levels are being evaluated by managers today and an update will be posted if the current “Set” status has changed.

Fire Restrictions:  No Fire Restrictions are in place, at this time. Residential burning currently requires a permit obtained through the San Carlos Forestry Department. With an issued permit, residents can conduct residential burning between 6:00 am to 11:00 am.