KRTS just spoke to Catherine Hibbard, lead public information officer for the Southern Area Incident Management Team. According to Hibbard, yesterday the fire grew by 10,000 acres, bringing total acreage burned up to 230,904 acres.
KRTS will be reporting at the top of every hour on the Rock House Fire. Here's the most recent update from the Southern Area Incident Management Team:
Yesterday the Rock House Fire spread over Madera Canyon, around Forbidden Canyon, and over Timber Mountain and is now about a half mile from Cherry Canyon.
West winds are expected to move fire along ridge tops in an easterly direction. Wind gusts of 35-60 mph could contribute to rates of spread of 3 mph or greater. Backing fires, or fires that move against the wind or down slope, are expected to the south and west of Madera Canyon. As the fire moves up slopes it could throw spots up to 500 feet over the top of the slope.
A predicted Haines index of 5, which is a measure of atmospheric instability and dryness, is expected to promote fire growth today. Ground crews will continue to monitor fire behavior, improve control lines, and provide point protection for structures. Firefighters are focused on safety and will not be getting in front of the fire as winds, terrain, weather, and extremely dry fuels could align to increase rates of spread, flame lengths, and intensity. Numerous aerial resources will be available to assist ground crews, but high winds may keep them grounded.
Additionally, there will be a status update on the fire for residents and neighbors of the McDonald Observatory this evening at 6:30 PM in the Visitors' Center.