The Gold Complex, consisting of the Mill Fire and the Smith Fire, continues to burn through Plumas and Tahoe National Forests. Here are the latest updates as of this morning:
Acres Burned-
Mill Fire: 2,962 acres
Smith Fire: 45 acres
Containment-
Mill Fire: 10%
Smith Fire: 60%
Detection Date: July 22, 2024
Cause: Lightning
Total Resources: 765 personnel
Crews:13
Engines:97
Dozers: 7
Helicopters: 9 + mapping-capable UAS (Unmanned Aerial Systems)
and
Fixed Wing Aircraft: available as needed
As of yesterday, some evacuation orders have been downgraded. For specific evacuation information, please visit the Plumas County Sheriff’s Office and Sierra County Sheriff’s Office Facebook pages.
An “Ask-the-Incident Commander” meeting is scheduled for today at 2 p.m. on the [USFS Plumas Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/USFSPlumas). Community members are invited to attend this meeting, nearly 500 viewers at yesterday’s meeting.
Operational Updates-
Smith Fire: Infrared mapping is showing very little heat remaining. Crews will continue today to patrol and mop up any heat sources that could threaten containment.
The Mill Fire is also showing reduced heat. Infrared mapping detected some minor lingering heat northeast of Whitehawk, which crews will focus on today. Other priorities include completing contingency lines to protect communities and energy infrastructure, backhauling any unused equipment and trash, and mopping up areas of heat within the containment lines. Residents and visitors can expect to see isolated smoke in the coming days.
A gradual cooling trend is expected today. Winds are predicted to increase around the fire area in the afternoon but are not expected to reach critical levels.
For more information and the latest updates, follow the Plumas County Sheriff’s Office and Sierra County Sheriff’s Office on Facebook, or visit the [USDA Forest Service website](https://www.fs.usda.gov).
Stay safe and stay informed.
