The Helena and nearby Fork fires, burning near Weaverville, together cover more than 20,000 acres.
Fire activity is expected to increase over the next few days due to warmer weather and firefighters will concentrate on maintaining and extending fire lines and providing structure protection. More than 1,300 personnel are on scene, with approximately 43% containment. A forest closure order is in effect for National Forest Lands affected by these fires.
Highway 299 is now under continuous one-way traffic control between Junction City and Big Flat, according to a Caltrans press release. Traffic control operations are anticipated 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Motorists can expect up to 45 minute delays in the area. The highway is subject to closure at any time due to the possibility of debris and other changing conditions.
Meanwhile, the Ponderosa fire, burning near Forbestown in Butte County since August 29, was declared 100% contained by Cal Fire Saturday. It burned just over 4,000 acres and consumed 32 homes and another 22 outbuildings.
And, the Eclipse fire complex, burning mainly in Siskiyou County, has grown to over 96,000 acres and is 25% contained. The information number for this fire is 493-1520.