Timber Fire grows along California iconic, rugged Big Sur coastline, forcing evacuations, closures

The Timber Fire in Big Sur, California, grew to 2,000 acres overnight, with 5% containment, according to an update from Cal Fire officials Tuesday.

​The fire started Saturday near the remote area of Loma Vista. The blaze, located in steep, rugged terrain, complicated the firefighters' response, prompting them to request additional units to respond to the scene.​

Fire crews have moved resources to protect nearby homes and prevent the fire from crossing over the Pacific Coast Highway. Around 500 personnel have now been assigned to help battle the fire.

With multiple structures being threatened by the blaze, evacuation orders and warnings remain in effect for several surrounding areas. All state parks in the Big Sur region have been closed.

​“We are respectfully asking the public to stay out of the area,” the Monterey County Sheriff's Department said in a Facebook post Monday. “Roadways must remain clear so first responders can work safely and effectively. Unnecessary traffic and sightseeing in the fire zone create hazards for emergency crews and slow down critical operations.”

​Big Sur is a rugged stretch of California's central coast known for its state parks, ocean cliffs and iconic Bixby Bridge. The area is no stranger to wildfires; in 2020, the Dolan Fire burned for over four months, scorching over 128,000 acres of land.