INYO COUNTY – Containment of the Airport Fire burning east of Bishop in Inyo County jumped to 30% Friday, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
The wildfire, which ignited Wednesday afternoon near Airport Road and East Line Street, has consumed 4,136 acres, Cal Fire said in an incident update Friday morning. The fire is the state’s largest of the year so far.
“Firefighters continued to make good progress throughout the night despite below-freezing overnight temperatures,” Cal Fire said. “Containment line construction and mop-up efforts will remain the priority.”
Nearly 700 firefighters were battling the blaze Friday. Full containment is expected by Feb. 24.
There have been no reports of injuries or damage to structures. The fire is no longer threatening the White Mountain Research Center and the Caltech Owens Valley Radio Observatory.
Evacuation orders have been lifted, but Warm Springs Road remains closed east of Highway 395.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Check back for updates.
