GeoMAC image midday July 3 reveals a resumption of the march north along a 10 mile flame front. The southern front is active as well. The video below is from KSBW tv in Salinas. The statements of 30 year resident and Big Sur Fire Brigade Chief Pinney are sobering.
We learn today the fire should burn until August.
The weather satellite loop gives a decent indication of conditions over the fire currently. Hourly weather for Big Sur Thursday indicates steady winds from the N/W at 11 to 15 mph until midnight. Friday winds will remain N/W 8 to 15 mph until late night when the wind will shift 180 degrees for a few hours blowing from the S/W.
Saturday N/W winds return. Firefighters know this and are planning accordingly. For us observers we can expect to see the fire push east and south. These winds offer no reprieve for those holding vigil in and near Big Sur Village.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q4l6M9jPzh0&hl=en&fs=1]
.
Carmen, I’ll respond here as well as emailing you. There is no way Basin Complex command is releasing equipment. The Gap Fire has the potential to burn several hundred homes. IF, big if, the Forest Service moved anyone it would be as you suggest because they have nowhere else to turn.Call it forest triage if you will.Best of luck to you!Mike
My sister, her daughter and husband live in close proximity of Big Sur Village and have been evacuated. Can you confirm rumor today that fire fighting resources from the Basin Complex Fire have been diverted to the Gap Fire in Santa Barbara county, specifically air support to drop water and retardant. As the fire approaches more housing and the Big Sur Village and the major tourist areas of the Village, Ventana Resort and Post Ranch, it is hard to believe that the limited resources have now become even more limited, at the worst possible time. Please respond to cardomingo@aol.comThank you.Carmen Domingo