Station Fire - Informational Update 9-4-2009

The Sierra Madre Fire Department and City Officials are closely monitoring the Station Fire and there is no immediate threat to Sierra Madre residents at this time.

The fire is now moving into heavy fuels, timber trees, and thick brush within the San Gabriel Wilderness north of the Cogswell Reservoir. This area has no historical record of burning and heavy smoke columns are expected.

Current weather patterns are slightly pushing the fire further north and away from the city. This weather has shown to reduce the smoke in the area; however the heavy brush will continue to produce Pyrocumulus clouds, as seen over the mountains this afternoon.

Firefighting operations continue to take place both day and night to hold the fire north of the containment lines that have been established from Mt. Wilson to Highway 39. Controlled fire operations may also be conducted along these lines which are at least three ridges (or about 3.5 miles north) away from Sierra Madre. The controlled fire operations increase the effectiveness of the fire breaks but should produce more smoke and flame in areas north of the City.

Be aware that there is a potential for increased fire apparatus activity on land and by air.

JC