UPDATE 3:25 p.m. — Based on scanner traffic and the amount of resources canceled it appears that the small fire has been controlled, though crews will likely remain to mop up. There was an initial response of some aircraft, but those resources have been recalled as well as various others.
MENDOCINO CO., 8/21/18 — A small wildland fire has started on Highway 20 about mid-way between Fort Bragg and Willits, that was initially reported to be about 100 by 100 ft in size, around mile marker 18.37. The fire is being called the “Creek Incident.” The fire is located beneath an electrical transmission line, presenting a hazard to firefighters.
The fire was first reported by the California Highway Patrol around 1 p.m. Crews from the Willits area, inmate crews from Chamberlin Creek, and CalFire are currently on the scene, however, firefighters may need to access the fire on foot. A dozer is also being called to the incident, and an air response is being ordered. The electrical lines also present a potential difficulty for helicopter drops.
Crews are staging equipment at a pullout around mile marker 18.25.
Watch out for traffic engines traveling quickly down Hwy. 20, and there may be some traffic, and the CHP is considering setting up traffic control. The fire is not directly along the highway, and firefighters are having to hike in, but the staging nonetheless creates the potential for traffic.
We’ll update as more info becomes available.
