Firefighters continue to gain ground on the Twain Fire burning north of State Highway 70 in the Feather River Canyon, with containment increasing to approximately 75 percent as of Wednesday evening.
The fire remains at 276 acres despite hot, dry conditions and temperatures climbing into the upper 90s. Crews spent the day strengthening containment lines and mopping up hotspots within the fire area.
Motorists traveling through the canyon will see a change overnight as traffic controls along Highway 70 are temporarily lifted. However, drivers should expect daytime traffic controls to return Thursday through Saturday while firefighters continue working on steep slopes above the highway. Officials say the restrictions are needed because of rolling debris and increased firefighting equipment traveling in and out of the area.
Fire officials credited Caltrans District 2 for providing around-the-clock traffic control since the fire was first reported last Saturday, calling the effort an important part of protecting both firefighters and the traveling public.
Residents and visitors are being asked to use extra caution when driving near Twain, particularly during the morning and evening hours when firefighting traffic is expected to be heaviest. Drivers are encouraged to slow down and watch for equipment entering and leaving the highway.
Smoke has diminished as firefighters continue to secure the fire, with only light impacts reported along Highway 70 and in nearby communities. The Pacific Crest Trail remains open, although hikers may encounter brief periods of light smoke.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
With vegetation across the Plumas National Forest remaining extremely dry, fire officials are reminding the public to use caution with anything that could spark a wildfire and to report any suspected fires by calling 911.
