Table Fire west of Lake Tahoe grows to 250 acres

The Table Fire burning west of Lake Tahoe, three miles northeast of Ice House Reservoir, is now at 250 acres and 20 percent contained.

Crews worked on line preparation on the east, west, and south sides of the fire yesterday. The north direct line is completed. They started tactical burning operations on the northeast corner to remove fuel between the prepared line and the fire.

On Friday, firefighters are continuing the tactical burn operations beginning on the east side and then the west side. Expect increased amounts of smoke as the fuel is consumed. This will significantly increase the acreage number for this evening's update.

Due to the hazards (terrain) to firefighters, firefighters are using indirect tactics; such as, making indirect check lines where they can't go direct and engaging in direct fire suppression on the north side.

The fire was started by lightning on the morning of September 8. USFS officials were allowing it to smolder but a high wind event on October 10 whipped it up. Winds are expected to increase this weekend, but fire officials say the Table Fire is burning in a sheltered location and the winds are not expected to have a significant effect.