Pickett Fire Rages: Napa County Battles Spreading Wildfire, Evacuations Underway

Napa County is currently grappling with the escalating Pickett Fire, a fast-moving wildfire that ignited yesterday and has since forced widespread evacuations across critical areas. As of early morning today, August 21, 2025, the blaze has scorched an estimated 2,200 acres with minimal containment, presenting a formidable challenge to an army of firefighters battling the inferno.

The Pickett Fire sparked late yesterday afternoon in the rugged terrain east of St.

Helena, near the picturesque foothills that are home to both residential communities and world-renowned vineyards. Propelled by gusty winds and fueled by dry brush and timber, the fire quickly escalated from a nascent smoke plume to a roaring blaze, sending massive columns of smoke high into the Napa Valley sky.

Mandatory evacuation orders are in effect for residents in the areas surrounding Pickett Road, extending eastward towards the Lake Berryessa region.

Advisory evacuations have also been issued for parts of Monticello Road and Wooden Valley Road, urging residents to prepare for potential rapid departure. Emergency services are urging everyone in the affected zones to comply immediately with these orders for their safety and to facilitate the work of first responders.

Road closures, including portions of Highway 128 and local rural roads, are in place to ensure public safety and provide clear access for emergency vehicles.

Hundreds of firefighters from Cal Fire and various mutual aid agencies are on the front lines, deploying an aggressive strategy involving ground crews, bulldozers creating firebreaks, and a fleet of air tankers and helicopters conducting relentless water and retardant drops.

The challenging topography, coupled with a forecasted heatwave and shifting winds, continues to complicate suppression efforts. Containment efforts are currently estimated at just 5%, highlighting the significant work ahead.

Authorities are providing real-time updates and maps of the fire's progression and evacuation zones.

Residents are strongly advised to monitor official channels, including the Napa County Office of Emergency Services and Cal Fire websites, for the latest information. Air quality alerts have also been issued, as smoke from the fire is drifting across the region, impacting air quality in neighboring counties.

Residents are encouraged to stay indoors and keep windows closed.

The cause of the Pickett Fire remains under investigation. As the community braces for another day of intense firefighting, the focus remains squarely on protecting lives, homes, and the unique landscape of Napa County.