Garnet Fire grows to 15,780 acres, zero containment as crews battle rugged terrain

FRESNO COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) -- The Garnet Fire burning in the Sierra National Forest has grown to 15,780 acres with 0% containment as of Thursday morning, according to fire officials. The wildfire, which started Aug. 24 south of Rodgers Ridge near Garnet Dike, remains under investigation.

Nearly 1,000 firefighters are assigned to the blaze, and more crews are arriving daily as officials work to slow the fire's spread in steep, rugged terrain.

Evacuations and Warnings

Mandatory evacuation orders are in effect for zones: K27, K30, K31, K32-A and K40

Evacuation warnings have been issued for: K28, K29, K32-B, K74, K85 and K160

Residents are urged to stay alert and follow official instructions.

Fire Activity and Operations

The fire burned actively overnight, with most growth to the north. The fire edge is now just south of the Teakettle Experimental Area and is expected to move into that area today. Crews also observed activity on the southeast corner, though the fire remains north of the Kings River.

Large dead trees from previous bark beetle infestations are fueling rapid fire spread and creating dangerous conditions for firefighters.

Firefighters are prioritizing protection of infrastructure near Balch Camp, where PG&E has power poles, wires and hydroelectric facilities. Some utility equipment has already been damaged, but crews have managed to protect critical assets so far. PG&E officials warn that destruction of these facilities could lead to major service disruptions and costly repairs.

Avocado Lake is now the site of the Incident Command Post, which has grown into a small city to support nearly 1,000 firefighters. The base includes catering, showers, medical units and equipment staging areas.

Weather and Safety

Weather conditions remain warm and dry with increased winds along ridgetops. Humidity is expected to rise later today, with thunderstorms possible to the north and northeast. Pyrocumulus clouds are likely to develop this afternoon.

Officials urge residents and visitors to use caution on roadways, especially near Trimmer Springs Road and Avocado Lake, where heavy fire traffic is expected. They also remind the public to prevent new fire starts by avoiding towing or mowing in dry areas, not parking on dry grass and using extreme caution with campfires. Fireworks are prohibited on national forest lands year-round.

RELATED: Wildfire smoke from Garnet Fire impacting air quality on the valley floor

Recreation Impact

The fire has prompted partial closures in the Sierra National Forest just days before Labor Day weekend. Officials are asking visitors near the Kings River to use caution and expect heavy fire activity in the area.

The Garnet Fire is the largest of nearly 10 active fires burning in the forest. Officials say the fire will likely continue through the holiday weekend.