October 1, 2025 — Firefighters in the Sierra National Forest are entering the final phase of work on the Garnet Fire, which has burned 59,844 acres since it began August 24. The fire remains 99% contained, with suppression repair and road security operations now taking priority.
On Tuesday, crews began blasting operations along dozer-created roadways used during firefighting efforts. Large rocks from forest quarries are being blasted into boulders, which will then be used to block unauthorized access to fire lines. Officials said this step is critical in securing the area and preparing roadways to safely reopen to the public.
Repair work is ongoing across the fire perimeter, including mulching, felling hazard trees, and addressing hotspots. To date, suppression repair has reached 53% completion for dozer lines and 73% for handline.
The fire continues to involve more than 600 personnel, including 8 hand crews, 8 dozers, 7 engines, and 15 water tenders. Nineteen injuries have been reported during the course of firefighting efforts.
Recent weather brought light rain showers above 5,000 feet, with totals of 0.25–0.35 inches recorded early Tuesday. Conditions have since cleared to partly cloudy skies with cool daytime highs in the 60s and strong overnight humidity recovery. Officials expect dry weather and mostly sunny skies on Wednesday.
Air quality in the Garnet Fire area is projected to range from good to moderate. Smoke and haze may settle into low-lying areas during the morning before dispersing with afternoon winds. Sensitive groups are advised to monitor local conditions at airnow.gov.
A reduced Forest Closure Order remains in effect as of Sept. 25. The updated closure reopens limited areas, including access to the 12S01 Road leading to the Kings River, while continuing to restrict entry into sensitive zones. Visitors are required to obtain an FS-7700 permit from the District Ranger’s Office in order to access closed portions of the forest.