Big Sur Burns: Fires rage, Highway 1 closed

As of Friday, a significant portion of Highway 1 on California's Big Sur coast remains closed due to ongoing wildfire activity. The Timber Fire, which began on August 8th, has consumed 23,343 acres and is only 26% contained, with over 660 structures still at risk. Firefighting efforts are focused on structure defense and controlled burns near Manuel Peak. This fire is the third most destructive in California this year.

Crews are also battling the Plaskett Fire, which started two days prior and has burned 2,774 acres with no containment. Both fires are impacted by a Red Flag Warning in effect through Friday afternoon, due to the threat of lightning and strong winds. The causes of both fires are under investigation. Evacuation orders and warnings remain in place for various areas, and a shelter-in-place order has been issued near the highway closure.