A one-acre fire, named the Mitchell Fire, broke out in eastern Sierra County south of Long Valley, after an abandoned campfire rekindled due to strong winds. Fire crews from the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest and Truckee Meadows Fire, along with the Sierra County Sheriff’s Office, responded swiftly to contain the blaze.
The fire was quickly controlled, but authorities emphasized the dangers of abandoned or improperly extinguished campfires. According to the investigation, the campfire had been insufficiently doused, leading to its resurgence.
Officials remind the public to ensure campfires are completely out by following safety protocols—douse the fire with water, stir the ashes, and repeat the process until the fire is cool to the touch. Campfires should never be left unattended, as embers can be reignited by wind, even when they seem fully extinguished.
The Sierra County Sheriff’s Office is urging the public to prioritize campfire safety, especially regarding illegal or improperly extinguished fires, which have already caused several incidents this season and pose a significant wildfire risk.
Photo provided via Sierra County Sheriff’s Office Facebook
