Coffee Pot Fire grows, but at its slowest rate in weeks

TULARE COUNTY, Calif. ( KSEE/KGPE ) – The Coffee Pot Fire grew at its slowest rate since it exploded in size a few weeks ago and fire officials say crews are making good progress.

According to Cal Fire, the wildfire was 13,162 acres large and 23% contained as of Friday morning. Primary strategic control lines are still 94% complete.

Western Flank:

Fire officials say containment lines should be completed between Drop Point (DP) 10 and DP 2 by Saturday (DPs are shown as blue squares on the map).

In this area, fire crews say they have been working with resource advisors and bringing hose lines into the groves to help cool the sequoias and make sure they stay resistant to the fire . They say progress has been made in Tubs Groves, and on Friday, they will be working on Nutmeg Grove.

Crews are monitoring and patrolling the lines between DP 2 and DP 5 on the northwestern flank where officials say a spot fire started five days ago. Fire personnel say the infrared map is not showing much heat in this area, meaning that their work is paying off.

Northern Flank:

Fire officials say the line on the northeast flank grew about 100 acres, but thanks to retardant and efforts from aircraft, it is currently holding. Crews are going to focus suppression efforts in this area while they continue to work in the indirect line from Horse Creek . Officials say two crews are stationed in this area, and two more are being sent out Friday.

Crews are also working to prep Mineral King Road all the way to Helispot 2 (helispots are shown as purple circles on the map), in case they see more wind activity as they did last night.

Eastern Flank:

According to personnel, the fire has been quiet along the indirect line between Helispot 10 and Homers Nose. Officials say they are going to take advantage of this by creating a direct line here on Friday.

Southern Flank:

Fire officials say mop-up activities are continuing along South Fork Drive. Crews will continue to backhaul water tanks, hoses, and equipment, conduct road repairs, and remove hazardous trees.

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