Strikes light local fires

MCKENZIE BRIDGE: The Knoll Fire, located off Highway 126 to the north/northeast of McKenzie Bridge, was ignited by lightning around 10:30 p.m. on Thursday. By Tuesday it had grown to over 59 acres.

Officials report firefighters supported by aerial resources are utilizing a combination of constructed fire lines, existing roads, and natural features to limit the spread of the fire. Crews have been reinforcing containment lines by burning vegetation between the fire line and active fire.

There are numerous hazards that pose a danger to public safety in the vicinity of this fire including active fire in the McKenzie River bottom and falling trees, making river travel unsafe through the fire area. Forest visitors should also avoid Olallie Campground, Deer Creek Hot Springs, and dispersed campsites near the springs.

Out of concern for public and firefighter safety, the McKenzie River Trail (#3507) is closed from the Trail Bridge Trailhead to Frissell Boat Launch. There are numerous hazards including active spot fires in the river bottom, and falling trees.

Another lightning-caused fire is burning two miles south of Big Lake in the Mt. Washington Wilderness. Smoke from the 27-acre Washington Pond Fire is visible on the Santiam Pass.

Closures in that area include Forest Road 2690, 2676 and the Big Lake and Big Lake West campgrounds., along with the Santiam Recreation Area and the Mt. Washington Wilderness.

A Level 1 (be ready to leave) Evacuation Notice is in effect for areas including the Belknap Hot Springs Resort area and structures near Scott Creek.