Caldor Fire that threatened Lake Tahoe Basin now 98 percent contained, 221,775 acres
Submitted by Jeff Munson on Sun, 10/10/2021 - 4:58pm
Just over 1,000 firefighting personnel remain on the Caldor Fire west of Lake Tahoe, which is now 98 percent contained and 221,775 acres in size.
After six hours of light precipitation Friday morning, conditions moved to warmer (though not warm) temperatures with drier conditions and light winds through the weekend. Freezing temperatures and icy roads are expected in the coming days.
Hot spots remain on the Caldor Fire and crews continue to suppress any discovered hot spots as they work deeper into the interior of the fire area around the entire perimeter. Combined with nighttime IR (Infrared) flights which identify areas of heat, efforts continue to find and eliminate all heat sources. A massive effort to remove hazard trees continues along the Mormon Emigrant Trail as well as at Sierra at Tahoe. And more than 1,000 PG&E employees continue to rebuild the electrical infrastructure.
Last week a large downed log began burning again, 57 days after it first burned. Although it didn’t pose a great risk of spread, it’s a very vivid reminder that the fire area continues to be categorized as having extreme drought conditions and is still receptive to and currently experiencing spot fires. The recent moisture did little to alter heavy fuel moisture levels.
Additionally, 40 engines, 24 bulldozers and 23 masticators are in use for repair and rehabilitation efforts. The Caldor Fire organization remains a large operation with many moving parts. The success of these many parts is only possible with a combined effort between the fire organization and the community.
The daily fire report Friday said, "we would be remiss if we did not express appreciation for the continued patience and thanks from the local community seen daily through signs in yards and general appreciation in many ways. As someone in line at the post office remarked today: 'I can’t believe how different it was just three weeks ago.”
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
