Timber Fire burns 4,545 acres, threatens over 500 structures in Big Sur

15 August 2026 · Source balance: Centre

The Timber Fire began Sunday morning in Los Padres National Forest near Big Sur, California, and has grown to 4,545 acres as of Friday. More than 500 structures are threatened, though no injuries or structural damage have been reported so far. The fire prompted evacuations of multiple zones and the closure of Highway 1 through the region. Firefighters are facing challenging conditions with steep terrain and fog limiting air support. As of Friday morning, the fire remained only 7 percent contained, though containment reached 12 percent by Friday afternoon. A marine layer has helped slow the fire's spread, and crews continue building containment lines behind homes. Nearly 900 personnel are on scene with engines, water tenders, helicopters, and dozers. The blaze is burning on federal land in the Los Padres National Forest, and authorities say it remains active in northern and eastern sections.