Caldor Fire now 83% contained

Weather conditions have been favorable for firefighters, allowing them to get a containment line around 83 percent of the Caldor Fire. It is 221,775 acres in size. High pressure moved over the fire area which helped reduce winds but did bring in higher temperatures during the day.

"This fire is still a sleeping giant," said Mike Wakoski, the new incident commander assigned to the Caldor Fire. "This is a big fire."

The Caldor Fire is the 15th largest in California history and almost 350 square miles.

Crews continue to work on hotspots and to secure control and containment lines in those areas and throughout the fire’s perimeter.

The decrease in fire activity over the previous 24 hours was an important window to make progress in several key areas. Fire personnel were prepared to seize the opportunity in Divisions Quebec (Q), in the Desolation Wilderness between Divisions Ida (I) and Mike (<), and west of Silver Lake in Division Romeo (R).

Warm, dry air is forecasted to return over the fire, with temperatures in the 60s and 70s and humidity in the teens. These conditions increase the potential for more fire activity, and we may see interior burning.

Motorists can expect intermittent road and lane closures on Highway 50, as utility crews, contractors, and fire crews continue to work in and around the highway 50 corridor. Please keep safety in mind and exercise extra caution when driving Highway 50.