Officials rolled back evacuation orders and road restrictions near Eureka as firefighting crews reached 27% containment of the Iron Fire. The fire, located just northwest of Eureka, grew to over 40,000 acres and began igniting multiple new fire starts in the area.
On Thursday, crews responded to the new starts and worked with local resources to suppress them using initial attacks.
The evacuation order for Eureka was downgraded from a GO status to SET at noon on Thursday, which allowed residents to return home. However, the evacuation order for Chimney Rock Pass and surrounding affected areas remained in place.
Road closures for Highway 6 between Elberta and Eureka were scheduled to be lifted at noon on Friday.
Firefighters focused efforts on establishing stronger containment lines because flames have the potential for spotting up to a half mile away from the fire front.
Officials stated that public and firefighter safety remained top priorities. They noted that crews continued to adapt operations as weather, terrain, access, and safety conditions changed.
Fire officials expected containment lines to be tested in the coming days due to increasing red flag conditions and critical fire weather. Crews remained on scene to respond to any new starts created by erratic and gusty winds.
