The calistoga fire flared to life just outside Calistoga on August 21, catching many by surprise. Reported shortly before 3:30 p.m. in the 2300 block of Pickett Road, the blaze—now called the Pickett Fire—grew rapidly, consuming at least 1,200 acres by early evening and prompting mandatory evacuation orders.
Cal Fire reported the fire is burning through rugged terrain south of Mount St. Helena, making suppression difficult as crews battle high heat and shifting winds.
Table of Contents
Current Situation
- Evacuation Orders
Residents in zones E114 and E120 have been ordered to evacuate immediately. Evacuation warnings remain in place for nearby zones E115, E121, and E122. - Shelter Open
The Calistoga Community Center at 1307 Washington Street is open for evacuees. Small pets are allowed. - Firefighting Resources
More than 215 personnel are deployed, supported by:- Over two dozen fire engines
- Multiple bulldozers and hand crews
- Water tenders
- Aerial support including helicopters and tankers
- Weather Conditions
Temperatures near 100°F and southwest winds of 5–10 mph are complicating firefighting efforts. Winds are pushing flames east, away from Calistoga’s city limits. - Air Quality
A smoke advisory has been issued for Napa, Sonoma, and Solano counties. People with respiratory issues are advised to limit outdoor activity.
At a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Fire Name | Pickett Fire (the “calistoga fire”) |
| Start Time | Just before 3:30 p.m., August 21, 2025 |
| Burned Area | ~1,200 acres (as of last update) |
| Containment | 0% contained |
| Evacuation Zones | E114 & E120 (orders); E115, E121, E122 (warnings) |
| Shelter | Calistoga Community Center |
| Resources Deployed | 215+ personnel, engines, aircraft, bulldozers |
| Conditions | Heat ~100°F, light winds, smoke spreading regionally |
What Residents Should Know
- Evacuation orders mean leave immediately. Do not delay if your zone is under a mandatory evacuation.
- Firefighting is active and ongoing. Air tankers and helicopters are dropping retardant and water to slow the spread.
- Smoke is visible across the region. Air quality may worsen, especially for sensitive groups.
- City of Calistoga not directly threatened yet. The fire remains outside city limits, though conditions could change.
- Cause still under investigation. Authorities have not yet determined how the fire started.
Final Note
As of today, August 22, 2025, the fire remains uncontained, with crews working around the clock to protect lives and property. Residents are urged to follow evacuation alerts and stay prepared.
If you’re in the area or tracking developments, share your experiences or questions in the comments below—your voice matters in keeping the community connected.