Fire officials are reporting the Sand Fire has burned 38,873 acres, but is now reportedly 85 percent contained. #SandFire

No active fire behavior is expected near the perimeter on the north, west, or south sides of the fire. On the east side, a successful tactical firing operation around the North Fork Saddle Station created a buffer between burned and unburned vegetation. It would take a very strong wind to push the fire north. However, firefighters are vigilantly monitoring for spot fires.

Assistance centers and workshops are being set up next week for residents affected by the fire.

The crews and resources on scene include 50 crews, 10 helicopters, 101 engines, 19 dozers, 16 water tenders and a total of 1,718 personnel on scene.

Hot, dry conditions prevail for another day in the fire area. This afternoon, the temperature will likely be in the low 100s and the relative humidity in the teens, according to the National Forest Service.

Typical southwest up-canyon winds will be in the 10–18 mph range, gusting up to 30 mph. Dry lightning might develop Saturday as monsoonal moisture increases atmospheric instability across southern California.

Closures

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s office lifted several road closures 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 28. Two road closures remain:
1. Sand Canyon Road and Placerita Canyon Road going into Bear Divide
2. Little Tujunga Canyon Road north of the Wildlife Way Station

To ensure firefighter and public safety, the Angeles National Forest’s Forest Order 01-16-05 is in effect for the land, roads, and trails near the Sand Fire.

Flight restriction

The temporary flight restriction (TFR) over the fire area has been reduced. The TFR that remains in effect does apply to drones, which have interfered with firefighting operations on this fire. Even a small drone could cause a fatal accident in a collision scenario. Before using a drone in the vicinity of a wildfire, first determine if a TFR is in effect and know the area included.