October 4, 2025 — The Garnet Fire, which has burned 59,844 acres since igniting on August 24 due to lightning, is now 99% contained as crews continue to shift their focus from firefighting to environmental repair and rehabilitation.
Rain, lightning, and even snow at higher elevations slowed suppression repair efforts on Friday, with work limited mainly to chipping operations in areas deemed safe. Today, crews are expected to resume full operations, prioritizing trail rehabilitation along the Crown Valley Trail, road repair, and ongoing mulching and chipping to stabilize the landscape.
A total of 620 personnel remain assigned to the incident, supported by 10 hand crews, 7 bulldozers, 6 engines, and 12 water tenders. Nineteen injuries have been reported since the fire began.
The Sierra National Forest reports that dozer repair work is 61% complete, while handline repair—restoring areas where crews cut firebreaks by hand—is now 75% finished. Officials expect continued progress in the coming days as weather conditions improve.
Weather and Air Quality
After a brief stretch of rain and cooler temperatures, a drying trend has returned to the area. Highs are forecast to remain in the lower 60s under mostly sunny skies through the weekend, with gradual warming expected early next week.
Air quality around the Garnet Fire zone is expected to remain in the good to moderate range, though smoke and haze may settle in low-lying valleys during the morning hours before dispersing with afternoon winds. Residents, especially those in sensitive groups, are encouraged to monitor current conditions at airnow.gov.
Forest Access and Closures
The Sierra National Forest has reduced its earlier closure order, reopening access to the 12S01 Road leading to the Kings River. The updated closure area was developed in coordination with the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office and multiple cooperating agencies to ensure safety for both firefighters and the public.
Visitors planning to enter the restricted zone will need an FS-7700 permit, available by contacting the District Ranger’s Office at (559) 855-5355. Full closure maps and details can be found on the Sierra National Forest website.
Meanwhile, the Trimmer Campground and Kings River Recreation Area remain open for fishing and camping as fall conditions settle in.
Officials announced that beginning Sunday, incident updates will move from daily to every other day as operations wind down and the Garnet Fire moves closer to full containment.