A wildfire that began in the mountains above California's famed Big Sur region has prompted multiple evacuation orders and closures along the Central Coast.
The blaze expanded rapidly as a result, reaching 400 acres later that evening. Evacuation orders were subsequently issued for zones MRY-F026 and MRY-F027 on Sunday night.
As of Tuesday morning, the fire has grown to 2,000 acres and is currently five percent contained. Additional evacuation orders have been declared for zones MRY-F025 and MRY-F028-A, with warnings in place for several other areas.
Power has been shut off around the Timber Fire. All state parks in the Big Sur region have also been closed due to the blaze, including Andrew Molera State Park, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation. CAL FIRE said Tuesday morning that the fire was contained to the east side of Highway 1, with firefighters working to protect structures along the roadway.
Fire crews have cleared brush and other potential fire threats in the area. However, officials said the heavy marine layer prevented helicopters from flying overnight and collecting water because of limited visibility, noting that crews are actively working to establish a water dip site nearby.
Authorities said the shelter will remain open until all evacuation orders in Big Sur have been lifted and residents are able to safely return to their homes.
In a video message, Monterey County Sheriff Tina Nieto urged residents under an evacuation warning to be prepared and to check on any neighbors who may be vulnerable and in need of support.