Carstens Fire Update

Mariposa County, CA — Cal Fire is getting a handle on the flames in the Carstens fire on the main route into Yosemite National Park near Mariposa. It is now 55 percent contained and only 50 homes are still threatened. Evacuations remain in effect for Buckingham Mountain Road and Carter Road.

Cal Fire reports it dozer fire lines around the flames have helped to stop the forward rate of spread. Nearly 2.5 miles of vegetation has burned. Fire investigators say a campfire that was not completely put out sparked the blaze.

Cal Fire reports nearly 1,700 fire fighters are battling the blaze from the ground and air including 117 engines, 53fire crews, 16 dozers, 15 water tenders and 9 helicopters.

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Update 7:50am: Cal Fire says crews, aided by lower temperatures and higher humidity, gained ground overnight.

Update 8:05 am: Cal Fire reports the fire is 60 percent contained at 1.660 acres.