The eastern half of the Castle Fire experienced its first significant rainfall yesterday morning. While the western side of the fire received little to no rain, cooler temperatures coupled with increased humidity significantly moderated fire behavior. These conditions resulted in no new fire growth and the fire remains at 10,400 acres after moving across about 55 percent of the planning area. Firefighters adjusted to the change in weather conditions and redirected their efforts to rehabilitation work in the areas previously affected by the fire.
Along the western perimeter, specialized work continues where masticators are being used to redistribute ladder fuels to the forest floor. When the fire approaches, it generally burns through the debris efficiently while promoting a healthy ground cover that is more receptive to new growth and regeneration.