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Fire burned actively Tuesday night. Indirect line preparation for firing operations on the east side of the fire. The Very Large Air Tanker (VLAT)- DC-10 continues to be utilized on the fire for retardant application. Crews continue to use direct attack when possible.
The Fire is located within the Sierra National Forest in Fresno County and is approximately seven miles North of Big Creek. It is currently burning off Stump Springs Road, North of Aspen Springs. The South Central Sierra Interagency Incident Management Team is in command of the Aspen Fire.
The inversion layer continues to cause smoke to accumulate in the low laying areas of the fire which hampers visibility of firefighters on the ground and in the air. As the smoke clears in the early afternoon, a more defined smoke column(s) may be seen from several miles away. As the evening progresses, the inversion returns causing the smoke to return into the lower levels.
Recreation and businesses remain open in the Shaver Lake, Huntington Lake, Lake Thomas Edison, Florence Lake and the Mono Hot Springs areas.
Stump Springs Road is closed to all traffic due to fire suppression activity. Minarets Road (4S81) from Fish Creek to Jackass Rock Organization Campground, Grizzly at Beasore Road to Minarets Road are closed to the public. Residents within the road closure are allowed into the area with valid identification.
Smoke from the Aspen Fire is impacting air quality in local communities. Individuals sensitive to smoke are suggested to remain indoors and keep windows closed, to minimize exposure to smoke.
Authorities said lightning was the cause of the fire.
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Total Size: 14,332 acres - 35% contained
Total Personnel: 1,792
Injuries: 2
Cost to date: $10.6 million
Campground closures within the Sierra National Forest:
- Sample Meadow
- West Kaiser
- Jackass Rock Organization
- Lower Chiquito
- Little Jackass
- Soda Springs
- Placer
- Sweet Water
- China Bar
- Rock Creek
Campgrounds closed to support firefighting efforts:
- Rancheria
- Badger Flat
- Midge Creek
All trails within the Kaiser Wilderness are closed.
Planned Actions:
Continue to build and prepare indirect line on the east side of the fire.
Cause: Lightning
