UPDATE 7:20 P.M. July 12, 2026
The Elephant Fire burning northeast of Loyalton grew by more than 2,000 acres on Sunday, with fire officials warning that continued overnight spread could threaten communities and roadways near the California-Nevada border.
Despite cooler temperatures and increased cloud cover that helped moderate fire behavior during the day, crews continue to face difficult firefighting conditions. Officials said ridgetop winds, dry fuels and steep terrain are challenging suppression efforts, particularly as the fire pushes north and east into heavier timber fuels.
Fire managers say there is a high potential for continued growth overnight, with the fire potentially impacting Scott Road, Chilcoot and Highway 395 near Hallelujah Junction.
Crews are using a combination of direct suppression tactics and aerial resources to slow the fire’s advance. Bulldozers are constructing fire lines where terrain and environmental conditions allow, while aircraft are dropping water and fire retardant in strategic locations.
Lassen County has issued an evacuation order for Zone LAS-451-A.
Evacuation warnings remain in effect for Lassen County Zone LAS-671-B, Plumas County Zone PLU-114, and Plumas County Zone PLU-104-A.
Elephant Fire near Loyalton burns 6,436 acres, 5% contained as of Sunday morning
Fire officials said weather and dry fuel conditions will continue to be significant challenges in the coming days. The fire is burning through portions of the 2020 Loyalton Fire scar, where hazardous snags and heavy dead fuels may limit direct firefighting efforts.
Thunderstorm outflow winds are also expected to become more likely early this week, creating the potential for increased fire activity and rapid changes in fire behavior.
The Elephant Fire started near Highway 49 northeast of Loyalton, close to the Sierra and Plumas County line. The fire is burning primarily in grass, brush, timber and standing dead trees.
Nevada Incident Management Team 3 Team 1 is expected to assume command of the incident Monday evening as crews continue efforts to contain the growing wildfire.
Officials are asking the public to avoid evacuation areas to ensure emergency crews have access to affected communities.
UPDATE 8:45 A.M. JULY 11, 2026
The Elephant Fire near Loyalton burns 6,436 acres and is 5% contained as of Sunday afternoon.
Fire crews are still trying to contain the blaze as gusty winds hit our area.
UPDATE 9:30 P.M. JULY 11, 2026
The Elephant Fire has burned 4,484 acres and is now 0% contained according to Cal Fire Incidents.
Evacuation warnings are still in place for some communities in the area.
UPDATE 7:30 P.M.
The Elephant Fire has burned 2,300 acres and is 5% contained as of Saturday night, according to Cal Fire incidents.
An evacuation warning has been issued for the Elephant Fire near Highway 49 and Dotta Lane in Loyalton.
Lassen County officials issued the warning for Zone LAS-451-A, according to the Genasys evacuation map.
Evacuation warning issued as Elephant Fire spreads fast near Highway 49 and Dotta Lane
Fire crews and law enforcement were monitoring the Elephant Fire burning northeast of Loyalton as officials worked to track changing conditions and keep nearby communities informed.
The Sierra County Sheriff’s Office said its personnel were on scene and in constant communication with the U.S. Forest Service to monitor fire activity and receive operational updates.
Elephant Fire near Loyalton burns nearly 200 acres as crews monitor fast spread
Fire officials are assessing conditions, and the sheriff’s office said it would keep closely monitoring the incident in case conditions change. Residents are urged to stay aware of the situation, but the sheriff’s office said no immediate action was necessary.
Elephant Fire near Loyalton burns nearly 200 acres as crews monitor fast spread
If evacuation warnings or other protective measures become necessary, the sheriff’s office said notifications would be issued promptly through official channels. Updates were expected as new information becomes available.
