A fast-moving wildfire named the Pickett Fire broke out on Thursday, just north of Calistoga in Napa County, California, quickly growing to approximately 1,200 acres by the evening with zero containment reported by fire authorities.
The blaze, fueled by dry conditions, required a massive response from more than 215 personnel using ground and aerial resources as flames threatened local communities and vineyards.
Initially reported at just 3 acres and spreading moderately, the fire escalated rapidly, exacerbated by rugged terrain and unusually hot, dry weather. By evening, Cal Fire described the blaze as 1,200 acres with a “continued moderate rate of spread,” noting that the fire had crossed ridgelines between Browns Hill and High Point.
With elevated fire risk and hot temperatures, authorities issued heat advisories and ramped up resource deployment to contain the blaze. Firefighters continue to face challenging conditions as the cause remains under investigation.
The blaze, fueled by dry conditions, required a massive response from more than 215 personnel using ground and aerial resources as flames threatened local communities and vineyards.
How the Pickett fire started
The Pickett Fire began just before 3:00 p.m. along the 2300 block of Pickett Road, northeast of Calistoga and near the scenic Silverado Trail, a popular destination in Napa Valley.Initially reported at just 3 acres and spreading moderately, the fire escalated rapidly, exacerbated by rugged terrain and unusually hot, dry weather. By evening, Cal Fire described the blaze as 1,200 acres with a “continued moderate rate of spread,” noting that the fire had crossed ridgelines between Browns Hill and High Point.
Emergency response and firefighting efforts
The firefight has included significant ground and air assets: at least 28 engines, six hand crews, four dozers, three water tenders, three helicopters, four air tankers, and an air tactical aircraft.With elevated fire risk and hot temperatures, authorities issued heat advisories and ramped up resource deployment to contain the blaze. Firefighters continue to face challenging conditions as the cause remains under investigation.
Evacuation orders and areas affected
Evacuation orders and warnings were quickly set into motion as the fire advanced. According to official statements and non-profit fire tracking groups, the following zones are impacted:- Evacuation Orders (Level 3, “Go”): NPA-E114 and NPA-E120—these residents must leave immediately, as the fire poses a direct threat to life.
- Evacuation Warnings (Level 2, “Set”): NPA-E115, NPA-E121, and NPA-E122—these communities should be prepared to evacuate at a moment's notice.
