Hathaway Fire burning over 3,800 acres

The fire burning in the San Gorgonio Wilderness east ofBanning was 63 percent contained today, having consumed 3,807 acres since itbroke out more than a week ago.

Firefighters have improved containment lines and continued building newones, clearing brush and other fuel, in the unsecured northeast corner of thefire, fire officials said. Although smoke is visible over a wide area, there isno threat to any communities or structures, they said.

The blaze, which has been fought on the ground and from the air, isexpected to be fully contained next Monday.

“Firefighters have been using Minimal Impact Suppression Tactics …with the goal of creating the least impact to natural and cultural resources,”a Forest Service statement said.

The fire has burned in a steep, remote area that is difficult to access,fueled in part by dead trees — the result of the 1999-2004 drought, plusbark beetle infestation.

Nine firefighters have suffered minor injuries, authorities said. The San Gorgonio Wilderness area, including trails, remains open.