Markleeville, CA…Current Activity: Forced by gusty winds, critically dry fuels and low relative humidity the Tamarack Fire exhibited rapid rates of spread and an increase in fire behavior throughout the day. The fire is estimated to have grown to 21,000 acres today and is still 0% contained. The fire continues to burn in a northwesterly direction, west of Markleeville towards the Highway 89 corridor. The increase in fire activity forced an evacuation of Alpine Village and Woodfords this morning. The fire crossed the East Fork of the Carson River near the East Fork Resort and moved into lighter fuels which aided in the fire’s growth to the north during the afternoon hours.

This evening, firefighters will continue to actively suppress the fire where they can safely do so utilizing a variety of tactics, natural barriers and targets of opportunity. The fire continues to impact the community of Markleeville and the surrounding areas. It has been confirmed by Alpine County, that 2 structures were destroyed by the fire last night.

Evacuations: Mandatory evacuations are in place for the following areas: Grover Hot Springs, Shay Creek, MarkleeVillage, Markleeville, Carson River Resort, & Poor Boy Road area, Wolf Creek Campground, Silver Creek Campground, ADDITIONALLY Sierra Pines, Upper and Lower Manzanita, Crystal Springs, Alpine Village, Diamond Valley Road and Hung-a-lel-ti are now under mandatory evacuations. “The Mesa” is under a voluntary evacuation (as of 3:00pm) but conditions are changing fast.

Closures: Highway 89 is closed at the intersection of Highway 4 and 89. Highway 4 is currently open west of the Highway 89 and Highway 4 junction. Please slow down and drive with caution in the area as fire crews and equipment will continue to arrive throughout the evening. Please refer to https://roads.dot.ca.gov/ for closure specifics.

Smoke: Due to an increase in fire activity and the growth the Tamarack Fire exhibited today, the Carson Valley and surrounding areas will continue to be heavily impacted by smoke and moderate ash fall throughout the evening and into the morning hours. Individuals with compromised respiratory systems are encouraged to limit outdoor exposure if possible.

Fire Information:

• Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7674/

• Facebook: @HumboldtToiyabeNF #TamarackFire

• Twitter: @HumboldtToiyabe #TamarackFire

• Fire Information Number: 775-430-5103

Incident Management Team: Type 2 Great Basin Incident Team #3 (IC-Bollier) in-briefed today at 6:00 pm and will assume command of the fire on Sunday, July 18, at 6:00 AM.