"The fire’s rapid containment—from 0% to 100% in just six days—demonstrates effective resource deployment and highlights the importance of early detection and swift response in wildfire management."
The Foster wildfire, located 2 miles northwest of Winterhaven in Imperial County, California, was first discovered on August 9, 2026, and is caused by human activity under the jurisdiction of the BIA. The fire initially burned 300 acres, grew to 311 acres by the next day, and then contracted to 252 acres as containment efforts progressed. Over the course of a week, containment increased steadily from 0% to 100%, with personnel ranging from 7 to 13 and fire behavior shifting from active spotting to minimal smoldering. The incident was fully contained on August 16, 2026, with an estimated cost of $91,000.
Official source description: 2 Miles NW from Winterhaven, CA
Minimal; Smoldering
Good air quality. Outdoor activity is generally safe near this incident.
Nearest reporting station: Yuma. Source: AirNow.gov (EPA).
The fire is now fully contained and exhibiting minimal smoldering behavior; standard wildfire safety precautions remain advised, but no immediate evacuation or fire danger is present.
IRWIN ID: {E5D1E6C8-BF1C-4F85-B31F-576389B9101D}
Discovered: Aug 9, 2026
Cause: Human
Managing Agency: BIA
Est. Cost to Date: $91,000
Coordinates: 32.7638, -114.6414
Other wildfires that have recently been contained or dropped from official tracking in CA.
The Foster Fire has burned 252 acres as of August 16, 2026.
Yes, the Foster Fire is fully contained (100%).
The official cause has been listed as: Human.
The Foster Fire is burning in Imperial, CA.
Yes, as of the latest official update, the Foster Fire remains active.
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