Apple Fire

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On November 16, 2020 San Bernardino National Forest officials announced that the Apple Fire, along with the El Dorado and Snow Fires have reached 100% containment. These fires were previously at 95% containment because uncontained perimeters were located in steep and inaccessible terrain. Containment has now been achieved as fire in uncontained areas has reached natural features void of vegetation.

Although full containment has been reached, the three fires remain in a status called uncontrolled. That means smoldering continues within the interior of the burn scar perimeters.

"We're pleased to see this improvement, but we remain cautious," said Deputy Fire Chief Scott Howes. "We've experienced below normal precipitation and several heat waves over the last six months. Temperatures continue to be high, the vegetation is drying out again and there is no new precipitation in sight."

Fire restrictions on the forest will remain in effect until conditions improve. Campfires, dispersed camping, smoking and recreational target shooting are among a number of temporarily prohibited activities related to fire safety. All fire restrictions are listed on the San Bernardino National Forest webpage.

Forest roads and hiking trails within the San Gorgonio Wilderness Area remain closed. Please check the San Bernardino National Forest website for forest roads and trails information.

Mudflow and flash flood risk

Recently burned areas are at a greater risk of mudflows and flash floods. Fires eliminate vegetation that can hold soil in place and charred ground may be unable to absorb water. Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) efforts are focused on the protection of human life, safety and property. Rapid burn assessments identify areas that have increased potential for floods and mudflows. For more information, please visit the Apple Post-Fire BAER InciWeb page.

Incident background

The Apple Fire started in Cherry Valley, Calif., on July 31, 2020, due to a malfunctioning diesel vehicle. With dry vegetation and southwest winds, the wildfire quickly spread, eventually causing evacuations and reaching 33,424 acres. At the height of the fire, over 2,800 personnel responded and assisted on the incident. Much of the northern and eastern sections of the wildfire burned on very steep, rugged wilderness mountains that were not accessible to firefighters and vehicles.