Raging Timber Fire In Popular CA Tourist Destination Prompts State Park Closures, Evacuation Orders

BIG SUR, CA — Fire crews were battling a wildfire that rapidly spread in the coastal community of Big Sur in Monterey County, prompting mandatory evacuations and the closure of state parks on Tuesday.

As of 11:57 a.m., the Timber Fire, which erupted on Sunday, has burned nearly 2,500 acres and was 5 percent contained, according to Cal Fire. As of Tuesday afternon, 259 structures were threated by the blaze Cal Fire reported.

"Overnight, the northern and eastern portions of the fire remained active, burning primarily above the marine layer. Firefighters observed single tree torching and upslope runs. The fire continues to hold on the east side of Highway 1," Cal Fire wrote Tuesday morning.

The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office cautioned residents and visitors that conditions could change quickly and urged the public to stay away from the affected area.

The sheriff's office warned that roadways need to remain clear for emergency crews. The agency also said unnecessary traffic and sightseeing in the fire zone could create additional hazards and hinder firefighting operations.

Mandatory evacuation orders were issued for zones MRY-F023, MRY-F025, MRY-F026, MRY-F027 and MRY-F028-A and remained in effect Tuesday afternoon. Evacuation warnings have also been issued for MRY-F022, MRY-F024 and MRY-F028-B.

All state parks in the Big Sur area have been shut down because of the wildfire, according to Monterey County officials.

An evacuation shelter has been established at Carmel Middle School where evacuees can receive updates about the fire and referrals to available resources, as well as food and water.

The sheriff' office said the shelter will remain open until evacuation orders have been lifted and evacuees are able to safely return home.

The cause of the Timber Fire remains under investigation.