Timber Fire in Monterey County expands to 800 acres, prompting evacuations in Big Sur
The Timber Fire grew to 800 acres with only 5% containment, leading to evacuation orders for two zones in Big Sur and warnings for additional areas.
The Timber Fire in Monterey County reached 800 acres early Monday, with containment still at 5%, according to CAL FIRE. The blaze, which started Saturday night in the Los Padres National Forest southeast of Loma Vista, has prompted the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office to issue evacuation orders for zones MRY-F026 and MRY-F027, including the Ventana Inn, and to maintain evacuation warnings for zones MRY-F024, MRY-F025 and MRY-F028.
Authorities urged residents in the ordered zones to leave immediately with family members, pets and emergency supplies, while those in warning zones were advised to prepare to evacuate if conditions worsen. Updated alerts are available through the county’s emergency notification system.
Fire officials said the fire’s rapid growth is due to steep, rugged terrain and heavy fuels, which hinder access and suppression efforts. The U.S. Forest Service, leading the response, noted that aviation support has been heavily utilized and will continue as weather permits. CAL FIRE reported no structures damaged and no injuries among civilians or firefighters. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.