Air Tanker Drops Massive Retardant Line Over Fast Growing California Wildfire

The Plains Fire grew to an estimated 800 to 1,000 acres near the Kern County line after starting on the afternoon of August 12, 2026, near the 9400 block of Soda Lake Road in the Carrizo Plains.

Video shows a large air tanker flying low over the dry, rolling hills before releasing a long, dense trail of bright pink-red fire retardant across the landscape. Multiple columns of gray and white smoke rise from the active vegetation fire below.

Crews are making slow progress because of limited access and extended travel times. Additional resources have been requested, including engines, dozers, hand crews, water tenders, overhead personnel and logistical support.

Kern County, Paso Robles Fire, Templeton Fire, Atascadero Fire, Santa Margarita Fire and Los Padres National Forest are assisting with the response.

The fire grew rapidly from roughly 80 acres to the 800-to-1,000-acre range due to moderate rates of spread through continuous grass fuels and difficult access for ground crews.