Wildfire Rages in California's Sierra Nevada, Forcing Evacuations

On November 10, 2025, a fast-growing wildfire erupted in Mono County, California, near the Nevada state line. The fire, known as the Pack fire, started at just 10 acres on Thursday afternoon but rapidly expanded to 1,000 acres, prompting evacuations in the area.

According to fire officials, up to 20 homes have been threatened by the blaze, though it is not yet clear if any have been damaged. Over 1,700 residents have been ordered to evacuate due to the fire's rapid spread, which has been fueled by strong winds of up to 40 miles per hour.

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection has stated that it is "far too early" to determine how long it will take to control the fire, as the winds continue to be a major factor. Crews are monitoring the fire's trajectory, hoping that if it moves towards Crowley Lake, it may be easier to contain. However, the unpredictable nature of the winds in the area makes the situation difficult to predict.

The Pack fire is burning in a remote section of the eastern Sierra Nevada, an area known for its alpine lakes and campgrounds that attract outdoor enthusiasts during the summer. The ongoing wildfire has already forced the delay of the scheduled opening of the Mammoth Mountain ski resort, which was set to begin operations on November 12, 2025. A winter storm expected to bring rain and snow to the region in the coming days may provide some relief to firefighters battling the blaze.