Wildfire in Big Sur prompts evacuations in Monterey County
A fast-moving blaze in the Los Padres National Forest forced evacuations and road closures along California's Big Sur coast, burning over 1,700 acres.
A wildfire that ignited Sunday in the Los Padres National Forest near the community of Loma Vista spread rapidly across the Big Sur region of Monterey County. By Monday evening the fire, dubbed the Timber fire, had consumed more than 1,700 acres and was only 5 percent contained, as rugged terrain and dense vegetation hampered firefighting efforts.
Authorities ordered evacuations at several popular destinations along the coast and closed a stretch of Highway 1 from Point Sur Lighthouse to Vista Point. The highway reopened Monday after the closure.
The U.S. Forest Service warned that dry conditions would likely keep the fire active at higher elevations through the night. Light winds, haze and widespread smoke were forecast for Tuesday, with the coastal location making the area susceptible to gusts.
"I know there is a lot of uncertainty right now," Sheriff Tina M. Nieto said Monday evening. "I want everyone to remain calm, but I also want you to pay attention and be prepared."
Investigators are still determining the cause of the blaze.