Monterey Bay Today

The Plaskett fire in Big Sur continues to grow, and the Trump administration plans to rescind a rule that protects roadless areas.

Nurses at Watsonville Community Hospital are protesting the closure of the NICU unit, and state legislators pass bills aimed at regulating the construction of new data centers.

The Plaskett Fire in Big Sur expands with aggressive growth. Lawmakers have passed a bill that would make it easier for the state to go after corporations with monopolistic behavior.

In this week's local news roundup: another fire breaks out in Big Sur, therapy dogs help firefighters, an endurance athlete reaches the mid-way point of a historic coastal swim, a homeowner finally finishes rebuilding after the 2020 CZU Lightning Complex Fires, and more

Firefighters are facing difficult conditions as they battle the Plaskett Fire. And, a Central Coast energy company is pushes for more transparency.

The Plaskett Fire started Wednesday, east of Los Burros Road and south of the growing Timber Fire. A record-breaking endurance athlete is swimming her way down the California Coast.

The Timber Fire has burned 17,817 acres and is moving deeper into the Ventana Wilderness. And, Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a bill expanding privacy protections for those who provide support services for immigrants.

The Timber Fire has now crossed the Big Sur River, and firefighters are preparing for continued growth in the Ventana Wilderness. Plus, firefighters battling the fire have found support from therapy dogs at base camp.

The Big Sur Timber Fire has grown to more than 12,000 acres. Santa Cruz County Long Term Recovery Group completes its first full rebuild. And, rental assistance keeps people housed.

Firefighters are making progress on the Timber Fire, but Big Sur will need ongoing support. And, lawmakers want to protect climate programs but cap and invest auctions are bringing in less revenue.