Big Sur fires expand to 33,000 acres as Highway 1 closure extends to 54 miles

Key points

• The Timber Fire, which started on Aug. 8, has grown to 24,601 acres and remains 21% contained, threatening 661 structures.
• The Plaskett Fire, ignited on Aug. 25, expanded from 140 acres to 8,241 acres by Saturday, approaching Highway 1 near Plaskett Ridge Road.
• Highway 1 is closed from Mile Marker 56 to Mile Marker 2.1, a 54-mile stretch, due to falling rocks and weakened trees with no reopening date.
• Evacuation orders cover 17 zones, while warnings and shelter-in-place orders affect additional areas in Monterey County.
• 1,600 personnel, including 123 engines and 14 helicopters, are assigned to the Timber Fire, with 660 personnel focused on the Plaskett Fire.

Background

The Timber Fire began on Aug. 8 southeast of Loma Vista, growing from 2,000 acres in early August to 19,296 acres by late August. Previous reports indicated 5% containment and threats to tourist landmarks, but the fire has since expanded significantly. The Plaskett Fire is a new development in the same region, adding to the crisis in Big Sur.

How outlets are covering it

KSBW emphasizes the Timber Fire’s size and containment status, while The Guardian and Los Angeles Times highlight the rapid growth of the Plaskett Fire. The Guardian notes that smoke and cloud cover hindered mapping efforts, whereas the Los Angeles Times details the Plaskett Fire’s approach to Highway 1 and the challenges of red flag weather. All sources agree on the closure of Highway 1 and the need for evacuations, but the Los Angeles Times provides more detail on the Plaskett Fire’s expansion and the difficulties in accessing the remote area.

Why it matters

The expansion of both fires threatens 661 structures and forces evacuations across multiple zones, impacting residents and tourism in Big Sur. The closure of Highway 1, a key scenic route, disrupts travel and access to the region, while the ongoing fires strain firefighting resources and highlight the challenges of managing wildfires in rugged terrain.

What to watch

Firefighters will continue to work on containment lines and monitor unburned vegetation to prevent flare-ups. The closure of Highway 1 will remain in place until further notice, and residents under evacuation orders must leave immediately. Updates on the fires’ progress and containment efforts will be provided by Cal Fire and local authorities.