Tuesday, 28 July 2026, 22:04
The Combie Fire ignited late Sunday afternoon near the intersection of Highway 49 and Combie Road in the Auburn and Lake of the Pines area. Initially mapped at 2-3 acres with a dangerous rate of spread, the fire quickly grew to 5 acres within minutes, according to Cal Fire Incident Command. Plumes of smoke were visible from multiple viewpoints along Highway 49.
Mandatory evacuation orders were issued for zones NCO-E394 and NCO-E005 by the Nevada County Sheriff's Office. One structure was reported threatened. As the fire advanced, multiple spot fires were detected around the perimeter, complicating containment efforts.
Incident Command requested a significant response: 10 additional engines, 4 hand crews, 2 dozers, 2 water tenders, and 4 overhead planes. Air Attack 230 was dispatched early. The Nevada County Sheriff's Office also requested CHP assistance to begin road closures along Highway 49 and Combie Road.
The Combie Fire is burning in Nevada County, a region prone to wildland fires. The area is a mix of forest, grassland, and residential communities near Auburn and Lake of the Pines. The mandatory evacuations highlight the immediate danger to homes in these foothill neighborhoods.
California's fire season has become increasingly severe due to drought and dry vegetation. In recent years, Nevada County has experienced multiple major wildfires, including the 2020 Jones Fire and the 2021 River Fire. Rapid response and early evacuations remain critical for protecting lives and property.
The Combie Fire remains active with fire crews working to contain the blaze and protect threatened structures. Residents in affected zones should follow evacuation orders and monitor official channels for updates. The situation underscores the importance of fire preparedness in California's wildland-urban interface.
