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Fire Update: Friday (April 29) 10 AM

fire-satyrday-23
An incredible photo of Saturday's (4/23) large burn off just north of the Observatory as seen from the sundial courtyard at the Visitors Center. (Frank Cianciolo/McDonald Observatory)

KRTS staffer Anne Adkins went to the Southern Area Incident Management Team’s evening meeting on the Rock House Fire at the McDonald Observatory Thursday evening, and brings us the following report:

The new incident commander for the Southern Area Incident Red Team reported that most of the lines around the Rock House Fire are now in "monitor mode." That means the fire is thought to be extinguished or near extinguished, and is just being watched to ensure it does not restart. The marching orders continue to be to scout, construct, monitor and hold the line.

The southern perimeter of the active area along Hwy 118 has been subjected to burnouts over the past two days and it is reported that this line should be secure by today. Back burning of Brown Canyon continued through last night. The northwestern flank is the area of concentration today as weather conditions worsen. Winds are expected to increase to 25-30 mph sustained with 40 mph gusts from the SW and a single digit relative humidity, making Friday another Red Flag fire day.

The two point blockade on Hwy 118 will continue through today. However, the lower blockade, currently just past Sunrise Stables, will be moved to just past the main entrance of McDonald Observatory. This will allow for public entry to the Visitors Center and Evening Star Party on Friday evening.

Since it appears that McDonald Observatory, Limpia Crossing and the DMR are out of jeopardy, this is the final briefing session to be held at the Visitors Center this week. If more sessions are required at the beginning of next week, notification will be provided.

Thanks Anne for attending these public meetings every evening this week. Stay tuned to KRTS for more information.