Single Publication

Yesterday at 8 a.m. the Southern Area Incident Management Gold Team assumed command of the Mesquite Heat Fire under the leadership of Incident Commander Dave Martin and in unified command with the Taylor County Sheriff’s Office.

Current Situation

The fire is currently 11,256 acres and 25 percent contained. Increased acreage is due to more accurate mapping and data collection.

Active, open flame was reported yesterday morning on the eastern side of the fire although fire intensity was low. Minimal fire behavior is expected today. However, fuels remain extremely dry and could support some moderate, low intensity growth.

Firefighters continue to focus on the uncontained firelines along the north, west and southern edges of the fire to limit fire progression. Heavy equipment is working to construct containment lines. Aviation resources are available to assist with any increased fire activity.

Evacuations

Sheriff Bishop has lifted the remaining access restrictions in the evacuated areas. A heavy Sheriff's Office presence will remain in the area to help ensure public safety.

Weather

Temperatures will reach the mid-70s today with relative humidity around 35-37 percent this afternoon. A mix of sun and clouds is expected with winds around 10 miles per hour. The chance of storms will increase tonight but Monday – Wednesday is when the chance of showers and storms will be the highest. Tomorrow, some storms could be strong including hail, local heavy rain and periods of frequent lightning. Temperatures will warm some on Tuesday before warmer conditions return Thursday. Higher temperatures are forecast for this weekend.

Resources

Assigned resources include 145 personnel, a Type 3 helicopter, 16 engines, a tractor plow and nine dozers.

Closures

A temporary flight restriction is in place over the fire https://tfr.faa.gov/save_pages/detail_2_7798.html.