Bridgeport, CA. August 31st 2020– The Slink Fire, located in the Slinkard Valley two miles west of Coleville, California, saw another active night last night. Around 6 p.m., fire behavior and activity increased, especially on the south end of the fire near the Rodriguez Flat area, burning in heavier fuels. Also on the south end, the fire got established into Snodgrass Creek area, a tributary to Silver King Creek.

Yesterday, crews worked to secure an anchor point in Slinkard Valley. Air operations were able to aid suppression efforts in the morning, however, fixed wing operations were suspended midafternoon due to dense smoke and poor visibility. Several retardant drops were made to hamper future ignition and slow the fire’s eastward spread. Helicopters were able to continue their work cooling areas of the fire with bucket drops throughout the entire day.

Today, firefighters will be going directly along the fire’s edge wherever possible, using hose to cool the fire edge as well as constructing handline in several areas of the fire. Three hotshot crews have now arrived on the fire and will be inserted in various places on the fire to construct and secure handline, which is the clearing away vegetation down to mineral soil in order to create a barrier between the fire and its future fuel sources. A dozer will also be utilized to construct fire breaks, particularly near communities for added precaution. Several helicopters will aid in the suppression effort today, along with fixed wing aircraft if conditions allow. Another mapping flight is planned for this evening, which will likely show an increase in acreage.

The Little Antelope Pack Station on Mill Creek Road has been evacuated as a precaution. There are currently no other evacuations or closures.

In addition to the Slink Fire, multiple other fires in California have contributed to the dense smoke and poor air quality in the area. Visit https://fire.airnow.gov/ to view updated smoke impacts.

Weather conditions can greatly affect fire behavior so they are closely monitored by fire managers and firefighters. A dry cold front is expected to bring gusty northwest winds and much lower humidity, resulting in critical conditions this afternoon and evening.