Pickett Fire Near Calistoga Burns 60 Acres, Evacuations Ordered for Multiple Zones

A fast-moving wildfire dubbed the Pickett Fire erupted Thursday afternoon in the 2300 block of Pickett Road near Calistoga, California. As of 5:30 AM Friday, August 22, 2025, officials confirmed the blaze had consumed approximately 60 acres with 0% containment.

Evacuation orders and warnings have been issued for several zones as fire crews race to contain the vegetation fire that is threatening homes and natural areas in Napa County.

What Areas Are Impacted by the Pickett Fire?

The Pickett Fire is currently burning in a region characterized by dry vegetation, vineyards, and scattered rural homes. With weather conditions pushing flames and embers into surrounding brush, the risk of rapid fire spread is high.

Mandatory Evacuations Include:

• Zone E120

  • North of Silverado Trail

  • South of Pickett Road

  • East of Rosedale Road

  • West of Pickett Road

• Zone E114

  • North of Pickett Road

  • Silverado Trail

  • South Old Lawley Toll Road and Victoria Drive

  • East of Palisades

  • West of Dutch Henry

Residents in these areas are under immediate evacuation orders and are being urged to leave without delay.

How Are Firefighters Responding to the Pickett Fire?

CAL FIRE reports that the fire behavior includes moderate spread and short-range spotting, making containment difficult. The dry, windy conditions in Napa County—combined with ongoing summer heat—are fueling the fire’s intensity.

Ground and aerial firefighting resources have been deployed in full force. Additional crews and aircraft have been requested as the fire remains active and uncontained. Emergency services are working in coordination with law enforcement to clear affected areas and maintain roadblocks for public safety.

While no structures have been confirmed lost as of the latest updates, the fire remains a serious threat. Containment efforts are being focused on halting the forward progress of the flames and protecting residential areas along Silverado Trail and the Palisades.

Why Residents Should Take the Evacuation Orders Seriously

Wildfires in Napa County can move rapidly due to terrain, wind, and vegetation type. The Pickett Fire’s proximity to homes, infrastructure, and local wineries makes it a dangerous situation. Emergency responders emphasize that even if flames are not visible from a home, embers can travel distances and ignite new fires with little warning.

Evacuees are encouraged to prepare go-bags, take pets, and follow emergency alerts via official county and CAL FIRE channels. Law enforcement has begun door-to-door evacuation notifications in impacted zones.

What to Expect in the Coming Hours

As of this morning, the fire remains active and continues to grow. Weather forecasts suggest wind gusts up to 10 mph and dry air will persist throughout the day—conditions that can worsen the fire’s trajectory.

The cause of the Pickett Fire remains under investigation.

CAL FIRE urges residents to stay out of evacuation zones, refrain from using drones in the area, and keep roadways clear for emergency personnel.

For Your Information: 

What is the current size of the Pickett Fire?
As of the latest update, the Pickett Fire has burned approximately 60 acres and remains 0% contained.

Where is the Pickett Fire located?
The fire is burning near the 2300 block of Pickett Road in Calistoga, Napa County, California.

What evacuation zones are affected?
Evacuation orders are in place for Zones E114 and E120, affecting areas around Silverado Trail, Pickett Road, and adjacent rural neighborhoods.

Who is responding to the fire?
CAL FIRE, local fire departments, and air support units are actively engaged in fighting the fire with both ground and aerial resources.

Is there a cause identified for the fire?
As of now, the cause of the Pickett Fire is still under investigation by CAL FIRE and local fire officials.

Sources:

• CAL FIRE Incident Reports

• Napa County Emergency Alerts

• KGO-TV ABC7 News

• San Francisco Chronicle

• KRCB North Bay Public Media