LAKE COUNTY — Crews fighting the Scotts Fire continue to close in on full containment with the blaze remaining at 4,618 acres and improving to 85 percent contained as of Thursday morning.
Personnel constructed containment lines around the fire perimeter, according to CAL FIRE. They will work to strengthen fire-control lines and address active fire areas within the perimeter.
The fire, which burns on North Cow Mountain between Scotts Creek and Scotts Valley Road, ignited for unknown reasons about 1:30 p.m. on Sept. 7. Officials are investigating the cause, according to CAL FIRE.
Full containment is expected Saturday.
No buildings were damaged or destroyed, though the blaze threatened the Blue Lakes and Scotts Valley Road communities early on. Five undisclosed injuries were reported.
Response Thursday morning consisted of nearly 1,030 personnel, according to CAL FIRE.
Fire suppression repair operations continue, aiming at preventing future environmental harm, according to CAL FIRE. Smoke could remain visible in the area as crews conduct mop-up efforts.
Officials anticipate more hot and dry weather conditions and urge people to exercise caution when using equipment capable of sparking a fire.
Yard work requiring a gas or electrical motor should be done before 10 a.m., and people should not pull a vehicle off the road into dry grass, according to CAL FIRE.
Mendo Rock Road Access to North Cow Mountain Road is closed at Mill Creek.
The Cow Mountain Recreation Area is closed at the Scotts Creek and Mill Creek entrances. Glen Eden and Valley View Trails are closed.
For specific information regarding the Cow Mountain Recreation Area contact the BLM at 468-4000 or go to www.blm.govca/st/en/info/newsroom/2012/september/CC1278_cowmtnclosed.html.
