Canyon Fire (CASTF)

Wildfire Status:

The Canyon Fire, which ignited on August 8, 2024, near Buchanan Road about a mile from Tuolumne City, California, has been a significant concern due to its location in steep and rocky terrain within the North Fork of the Tuolumne River Canyon. As of August 14, 2024, the fire has burned approximately 80 acres and is reported to be 100% contained. Fire crews initially faced challenges with the fire's growth, but aggressive firefighting tactics, including defensive burning and air support, have successfully kept the fire from threatening nearby homes.

The incident has been managed under a unified command involving CAL FIRE and the Stanislaus National Forest, focusing on protecting life and property. After the evacuation orders were lifted, the Tuolumne County Sheriff's Office exited the unified command, indicating an improvement in the situation. As of now, fire personnel will continue patrolling the area to ensure that no flare-ups occur, and Buchanan Road has been reopened to the public. However, the Westside Trail remains closed due to hazards such as rolling rocks and falling trees that were exacerbated by the fire.

Current weather conditions pose challenges for fire management, with high temperatures reaching the 90s and very low humidity levels contributing to fire risk within the canyon. The forecast indicates low fire activity for the foreseeable future, allowing crews to focus on mopping up operations and rehabilitating suppression lines. The estimated containment date for the incident is August 16, 2024, as crews work towards establishing a 200-foot buffer of blackened earth adjacent to the containment lines to further secure the area.

Visit Inciweb Incident Page for more information. Information on this page is provided for informational purposes only.

Containment History:

Fire Growth History: