Umatilla National Forest fire crews respond to new ignitions following lightning storm

August 5, 2019 - 12:30 p.m.

PENDLETON, Ore. – Fire crews on the Umatilla National Forest are responding to new smoke reports following passing thunderstorms Sunday evening. Significant lightning activity occurred across much of the Forest, with approximately 15-20 new incidents on the Umatilla National Forest reported so far to the Blue Mountain Interagency Dispatch Center (BMIDC) and John Day Interagency Dispatch Center (JDIDC).

Local initial attack resources have been busy responding to these incidents with support from aerial resources. The majority of these fires are staffed and remain small, less than one acre in size. However, more smoke reports are expected throughout today and the next few days. Aerial reconnaissance and fire lookouts are assisting with detection efforts.

With increased dry weather, fire officials want to remind everyone that the current fire danger rating remains at HIGH and public use restrictions involving chainsaw use are in effect. Similar restrictions may be in effect on State and private lands protected by the Washington Department of Natural Resources (WA-DNR).  More information can be found on the WA-DNR website at: http://www.dnr.wa.gov/.  

For more information regarding Restrictions, please contact:

Umatilla National Forest:

Information Hotline: Toll-Free (877) 958-9663

www.facebook.com/UmatillaNF

Twitter: @UmatillaNF

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

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