8/25 Virtual Meeting Highlights

Posted on Updated on

Correction on

In the original post, it was stated that the French Fire appeared to be human caused. However, upon reviewing the video in a quieter environment, the correct statement was that it was determined to be human caused. The statement was made in the Virtual Meeting at 26:15 by Teresa Benson.

Fire Summary

  • The French Fire has been determined to be human caused and of a suspicious nature
  • Highway 155 from Lake Isabella to Wofford Heights is closed
  • Recreational sites between Kernville and Johnsondale will be closed beginning 8/26
  • Evacuation warning issued for Riverkern and Kernville
  • FEMA has authorized the use of federal funds to assist in combating the French Fire
  • 21,345 acres
  • 19% contained
  • 1,067 personnel
  • Estimated date of containment is 9/7
  • Evacuation centers at Woodrow Wallace Elementary and Kern Valley High School

Virtual Meeting Highlights

This is one team — One fight.

Up Alta Sierra, crews engaged in structure protection. Wind shifts at around 2:00 PM cause spot fires and down-canyon winds drove the fire towards Wofford Heights.

Crews are improving containment lines and feeling optimistic about about holding the fire.

ReadyKern sends notifications when evacuation orders are lifted.

Groundwork on the investigation is complete and evidence is being analyzed. The French Fire appears to be human caused and of a suspicious nature. Any tips for the investigation may be sent to 2021.french@firenet.gov

There is a planned closure of all recreational sites from Kernville to Johnsondale beginning on 8/26.

The French Fire did impact the communities of Alta Sierra and Wofford Heights. However, info on damages will not be released until after investigations.