Bridgeport, CA. August 31st, 2020– Influenced by dry fuels, topography and winds, the Slink Fire made a substantial run towards the towns of Walker and Coleville at approximately 3 p.m. this afternoon. The fire has grown to 6,500 acres, with 5% containment.

Click the above image for a full sized photo of the Slink Fire from today.

The follow areas are under evacuation:

o Cunningham Lane south to the town of Walker o The entire town of Walker, on both sides of Highway 395

Evacuees can go to Topaz Lodge and coordinate with the Red Cross. U.S Highway 395 is closed from Topaz Lane north of Coleville to Eastside Lane in the town of Walker.

Today, firefighters experienced extreme fire behavior, with wind driven runs, crown fire and long-range spotting. Multiple fire whirls caused rapid growth towards both Walker and Coleville. Additional resources have been ordered, however due to significant fire activity in the state and across the nation, fire resources are in high demand not always readily available.

Firefighter’s main priority tonight and tomorrow will be providing structure protection in the Coleville and Walker areas if the need arises. Another area of concern is the Iceberg Wilderness on the west side of the fire. Based on tomorrow’s expected winds and low humidities, firefighters expect to continue to experience extreme fire behavior.

Air operations has been a challenge due to dense smoke, hampering the ability to use fixed wing aircraft most of the day. In addition to the Slink Fire, multiple other fires in California have contributed to the dense smoke and poor air quality in the area. Visit https://fire.airnow.gov/ to view updated smoke impacts.