Lightning ignites numerous small fires along Cascade Crest

The predicted lightning storm passed over the southern and central portions of the Willamette National Forest yesterday evening, igniting numerous small fires. One blaze in the headwaters of the Middle Fork Willamette River near Timpanogas Lake quickly grew to 15 acres. Crews responded immediately to that incident and a helicopter dropped water until evening fell.

Fifteen ‘smoke reports’ were called into the Eugene Interagency Dispatch office last night; the majority of which are located in the Three Sisters Wilderness. Eight smokejumpers are working on a fire near Sims Butte; early reports suggest they may be able to contain that fire. More smokejumpers will be used today to extinguish fires in that area.

Crews from the Middle Fork Ranger District are back out there this morning. Travelers on Forest Service Road 2154 in the vicinity of Opal and Timpanogas Lakes will likely experience delays as firefighting personnel will guide vehicles through the area based on fire activity. Campers at Timpanogas Lake and hikers on nearby trails should remain alert to changing conditions. There are no closures at this time (0800, August 1, 2013), but conditions could change should the fire become more active. A helicopter is likely to continue dipping water from lakes in the area; visitors should stay well clear of firefighting operations for the safety of themselves and the fire fighters.

Fifteen ‘smoke reports’ were called into the Eugene Interagency Dispatch office last night; the majority of which are located in the Three Sisters Wilderness. Eight smokejumpers are working on a fire near Sims Butte; early reports suggest they may be able to contain that fire. More smokejumpers will be used today to extinguish fires in that area.

Today’s forecast calls for cooler temperatures and higher humidity with only a chance of lightning. While there were sprinkles overnight, the trees and brush remain very dry.