Plaskett

All evacuations lifted as crews patrol lines and conduct suppression repair

The fire is burning east of Plaskett in the steep coastal terrain of Los Padres National Forest near Big Sur. Over the last 72 hours, fire activity remained minimal with only smoldering and creeping in interior fuels while established lines held. The fire no longer threatens nearby communities, with crews focused on patrol, monitoring interior hot spots, and suppression repair.

Evacuations and Closures

• All evacuation orders and warnings were lifted by the Monterey County Sheriff's Office on September 16, 2026.
• Highway 1 through Big Sur fully reopened between Cambria and Carmel on September 14, 2026, though drivers should remain alert for emergency personnel and equipment along the road.

Impact

Three firefighters were reported injured from slips and falls in steep terrain on September 16, 2026, and all received medical treatment. Smoke impacts have lessened across coastal communities as interior burning diminishes.

Conditions and Outlook

Light winds will shift from onshore to northeasterly before swinging back to the west-northwest, accompanied by moderate humidity and dry conditions. No additional fire spread is anticipated beyond the established perimeter. Crews plan to use unmanned aerial systems and infrared mapping to detect residual interior heat while continuing suppression repair across the fire area.

Cause and Context

The cause of the fire remains under investigation as of September 17, 2026. The northern flank of the fire burned into the footprint of the 2020 Dolan Fire.

Official updates current through September 17, 2026.