Little Fire Update: Crews Push Containment Forward, 61% containment

Kern River Valley, CA — August 28, 2025 12 PM - Firefighters continue to gain ground on the Little Fire, which has now burned 2,529 acres and is 61% contained. A total of 732 personnel remain assigned to the incident, working steadily across all divisions to secure the fire’s perimeter and reduce interior hot spots.

Progress on All Fronts

Along the northern edge, crews are reinforcing containment lines, conducting mop-up, and addressing lingering heat. Engines are positioned in the Rough and Ready area to provide structure protection and to patrol for possible flare-ups.

On the eastern side, fire activity has been minimal, thanks in part to recent rainfall. With conditions cooled, crews are focusing primarily on patrol and monitoring duties.

The southern flank continues to see mop-up work as hand lines are strengthened down toward State Route 178. Meanwhile, along the western perimeter, air resources targeted interior heat pockets, and ground crews camped out overnight to maintain their presence on the line.

Contingency Efforts

Dozer teams are making progress along Delonegha Road toward 26S06 Road, while additional contingency lines are being improved on Bradshaw Ridge. These efforts provide backup in case the fire changes direction or intensify unexpectedly.

Weather and Conditions

Remnants of Tropical Storm Juliet, now downgraded to a tropical depression, are influencing conditions across Southern California. Over the fire zone, cloud cover is expected to persist with only a slight chance of showers.

Daytime highs are projected to be between 82 and 85 degrees, with relative humidity levels ranging from 22% to 25%. Winds will stay predominantly westerly, with localized up-canyon and upslope patterns near SR-178.

Despite the drying trend following recent storms, fuels remain below seasonal averages, and fire activity is expected to remain subdued.

Evacuations

An Evacuation Order remains in place for Genasys Protect Zone KRN-709-B. The boundaries include:

•North of Kern River Highway

•South of Basket Pass Road

•East of Kern River Highway

•West of Kern River Canyon Road, SR-178

An Evacuation Warning is in effect for Zone KRN-709A. Residents can view detailed evacuation maps at protect.genasys.com.

Road and Area Closures

•Highways: SR-178 remains open; however, Old Kern Canyon Road is closed due to mudslides.

•Recreation: The Kern River and Keysville Special Recreation Management Area are open for public use.

•Forest Restrictions: The Sequoia National Forest has issued a closure order for the Little Fire area. Several campgrounds and trails are affected. Maps and details are available on the Sequoia National Forest website.