x
Breaking News
More () »

Prescribed burn turned wildfire brings smoke to Sierra-Nevada Foothills

The Caples Fire burning in El Dorado National Forest has burned 2,667 acres and is 25% contained.

EL DORADO COUNTY, Calif. — A wildfire in El Dorado National Forest continues to burn, bringing smoky conditions to the Sierra-Nevada Foothills.

Smoke from the Caples Fire is expected to linger mainly over the Sierra, south of I-80, according to the National Weather Service. 

RELATED: Hazy skies, smell of smoke throughout Sacramento Valley

Originally, the Caples Fire was a prescribed fire meant to reduce fuels and limit the intensity of fires in El Dorado National Forest. However, on Oct. 10, fire and weather conditions stopped firefighters from completing firing operations, and the fire was declared a wildfire.

The declaration lets crews get access to additional resources they wouldn't normally have, such as a dozers and engines from Cal Fire.

As of Saturday, the fire has burned 2,667 acres and is 25% contained. Despite the acreage number, authorities say the fire is still within the original project's boundaries.

Firefighters are currently focused on the south and east lines of the fire as they keep an eye out for any increased fire behavior due to potential winds.

RELATED: Smoke fills sky in Sacramento Valley, Sierra Foothills

Crews are also using helicopters and and tanker retardant drops to help bolster firefighting efforts.

WATCH ALSO: 

How to control California fires, scientists explain | FIRE – POWER – MONEY, Ep. 1 of 3

Before You Leave, Check This Out