Pack Fire Update: California’s Pack Fire Burns 3,000 Acres in Long Valley Area, Forcing Evacuations and Road Closures

LONG VALLEY, Calif. — The Pack Fire burning in Mono County, California continues to threaten communities near Long Valley and McGee Creek, prompting evacuation orders and road closures as of Friday morning, November 14, 2025.

Fire officials said the blaze, initially estimated at 3,400 acres, has been revised to 3,000 acres after updated aerial mapping. Containment remains at just 5%, with most fire activity described as “smoldering with minimal spread,” though strong winds and dry vegetation continue to pose flare-up risks.

Evacuations and Warnings Remain in Effect

Local authorities confirmed that both Long Valley and McGee communities are still under full evacuation orders, while Crowley Lake remains under an evacuation warning. Approximately 1,795 residents and 1,196 structures are affected by these safety measures.

Evacuation shelters have been opened in nearby communities to accommodate displaced families, while crews continue damage assessments in areas previously impacted by the fire’s main burn front.

Officials from the Inyo National Forest said structure protection remains a top priority, particularly around Crowley Lake Drive, where the fire approached residential zones earlier in the week.

“Even though overall fire activity has decreased, the risk remains high,” fire officials stated. “Crews are focused on reinforcing containment lines and extinguishing hot spots before winds return this weekend.”

Highway Reopenings and Ongoing Closures

Highway 395, which was previously closed due to proximity to the flames, has since reopened to traffic. However, Crowley Lake Drive remains closed between McGee Creek Road and the Long Valley Fire Station due to ongoing firefighting operations and potential flare-ups.

Residents have been advised to avoid the area and allow emergency crews to operate safely. Fire engines, bulldozers, and aircraft continue to patrol containment zones as crews monitor for rekindling.

Containment Progress and Fire Behavior

Officials noted that improved weather conditions overnight helped slow the fire’s forward progress. Light winds and slightly cooler temperatures allowed firefighters to make limited gains in containment.

However, firefighters continue to face challenges due to thick brush and steep terrain, which complicate suppression efforts. The region’s extremely dry fuel load remains a concern as California heads deeper into the fall fire season.

“Even at 5% containment, we can’t relax,” said one Cal Fire spokesperson. “This area has a history of stubborn fires that can reignite under the right wind conditions.”

A damage assessment is ongoing to determine the number of homes and structures lost or damaged, though officials have not yet released estimates.

Air Quality and Regional Impact

Heavy smoke from the Pack Fire has drifted across Mono and Inyo counties, leading to air quality alerts in nearby areas, including Bishop and Mammoth Lakes.
Residents are advised to limit outdoor activities and use N95 masks when possible. Sensitive groups, including children and older adults, should stay indoors until conditions improve.

Emergency Response and Outlook

More than 300 firefighting personnel are currently assigned to the Pack Fire, supported by multiple air tankers, helicopters, and ground engines. Fire officials hope to increase containment before Saturday, when forecasts call for stronger winds that could reignite embers.

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) is working alongside Mono County Sheriff’s Office and local fire districts to maintain safety and coordinate evacuations.

The cause of the Pack Fire remains under investigation, though early reports suggest it may have been sparked near McGee Creek Road before spreading rapidly through dry grass and brush.

Safety Reminders

Authorities urge residents in nearby communities to remain vigilant and prepared for possible changes in evacuation status. Officials recommend:

• Keeping emergency bags and important documents ready to go.
• Following official evacuation alerts and road closure updates.
• Avoiding travel through restricted areas or fire perimeters.
• Monitoring local radio and Cal Fire’s incident page for real-time updates.

The next full fire update is expected Friday evening as containment efforts continue.

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