PLUMAS COUNTY, CA - Tuesday, officials closed much of Lassen National Forest in response to the stubborn Chips Fire which started in Plumas National Forest south of Lassen last week.
The expanded fire emergency closure area includes north of the flames and Grizzley Peak Campground, said fire spokeswoman Jennifer Velez.
The fire has blackened 15, 344 acres with 10 percent contained.
There are 765 people fighting the fire, which fire officials hope to have fully contained by Aug. 21.
The fire has grown in a north and northwest direction and wasn't expected to be helped by very dry fuels and strong south, southwest winds. It threatens 26 residences and four commercial structures.
A precautionary evacuation notice has been issued for Belden, Maggie's Trailer Park and Little Haven. A voluntary evacuation notice has been issued for the Rush Creek area.
Residents along Highway 70 from Tobin to Twain were asked plan for evacuations. A voluntary evacuation is in place for areas south of Highway 89, which includes Butt Valley Reservoir and Humbug Reservoir.
News10/KXTV