Umatilla National Forest Lightning Fire Update

Contact: Joani Bosworth, (541) 278-3722

Pendleton, Ore. -  Significant lightning activity over the weekend resulted in seven reported fires on the Umatilla National Forest: six on the Walla Walla District and one on the Pomeroy District.  Initial attack resources are responding to all of these fires which are currently small in size with most estimated at less than one-tenth of an acre.  

The largest is estimated at 4-5 acres and located in the Meacham Creek/Stumbough Ridge area, 20 miles east of Pendleton. One engine, two helicopters, two single-engine air tankers (SEATs), one air attack and four rappellers are currently responding to this fire.

A reconnaissance flight is taking place this afternoon and new fire reports are expected throughout the day.

The fire danger rating remains at HIGH and Public Use Restrictions involving campfires and chainsaw use are in effect.  For more information about the Umatilla National Forest’s Public Use Restrictions, please contact any forest office, call our Forest Information hotline at 1-877-958-9663, or visit our website at www.fs.usda.gov/umatilla/.

The latest fire information will be posted on the Blue Mountains Fire Information Blog. If you are interested in receiving updates on fires in the Blue Mountains, follow our blog at http://bluemountainfireinfo.blogspot.com/. 

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