Fire activity on the Caldwell Fire has decreased substantially - this will be the final July Complex written update unless there are any significant developments

Firecrews work on vegetation mitigation near Medicine Lake. August 1, 2020 (Image: Inciweb)

MODOC NATIONAL FOREST, Firefighters are making substantial progress on the Caldwell Fire. It is now 85% contained at 80,859 acres. Control lines on all sides of the fire are holding well. There are areas of unburned vegetation in the interior that may still ignite and show smoke. The southwest edge of the fire remains the most active.

Firefighters have placed hose lines with water supply throughout the entire southwest edge, and they continue to improve control lines.

On the northwest side of the fire, crews are primarily mopping-up.

On the north, there is now black line (edge that is considered “contained”) around the entire area, and the heat within the tules has subsided.

On the east side of the fire, crews are ensuring that fuels are cooled and that the fire can withstand wind without crossing over the control line.

Crews on the southeast side are also focused on mop-up.

There are resource specialists examining the fire area to determine what actions are needed to mitigate impacts of firefighting efforts on the land. On most areas of the fire, efforts will soon transition to these suppression repair tactics. More firefighters will now be available for initial attack to address any new fire starts in the Caldwell Fire area.

A reminder that residents only have been allowed to return to private cabins at Medicine Lake. Cabin owners should use extreme caution on the roads as there are still multiple fire resources in the area. U.S. Forest Service campgrounds, recreational areas, and day-use areas at Medicine Lake will stay closed to support firefighters.

To mitigate COVID-19 risks, fire personnel are spread through three fire camps, with strict COVID-19 precautions in place.

Weather:
Today will be another sunny, hot day with temperatures 89-94. Dry conditions remain with humidity forecasted at 8-13%. Winds will be variable at 3-6 mph through 11 a.m. and then become S-SW at 8-13 mph with gusts up to 18 mph. Winds will shift around 4 p.m., coming from the northwest at 10-15 mph with gusts up to 20 mph. More warm and dry weather is predicted for next week.

Allen and Dalton Fires:
The Allen and Dalton fires are now in monitor-only status. Firefighters are taking suppression repair actions, and managers are planning to transfer command of these fires back to the Modoc National Forest.

Fire managers will employ tactics that safely engage fire while prioritizing firefighter and public safety and protecting values at risk. Life safety will always remain the number one priority. COVID-19 mitigations are being taken to limit exposure risks to firefighters and the public, per CDC guidelines.

Closures and Evacuations:
The Medicine Lake recreation area is CLOSED, including campgrounds, recreation areas and day-use areas. The Lava Beds National Monument remains closed. For more information related to the Lava Beds closure, please visit: facebook.com/LavaBedsNPS.

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July Complex Fire Details

Cause:
Lightning

Size (acres):
Caldwell: 80,859
Allen: 1,035
Dalton: 1,367

Containment:
Caldwell: 85%
Allen: 100%
Dalton: 100%

Location:
Modoc National Forest

Resources:
Personnel: 1,490
Engines: 99
Dozers: 21
Tenders: 29