The Plumas National Forest is actively taking lightning today from thunderstorms passing over the area and firefighters are continuing their response to lightning fires that started 10 days ago.
The greatest risk for lightning is today, with potential for dry lightning as storms are expected to move over the area quickly with little to no rain. Through the rest of the week the chance of thunderstorms decreases, with a substantial cool down this weekend and increased winds.
It is expected that there will be more lightning fires discovered, both from the new strikes this week and holdover fires from the thunderstorms last week. Despite cooler temperatures, dry conditions and increased winds are a concern for firefighters this weekend.
Since lightning fire response started Sunday, August 24, firefighters have contained and controlled 34 confirmed lightning fires and two human-caused fires. The largest fire of the 36 is approximately 2.75 acres. No communities or structures are threatened at this time.
“For the past 10 days firefighters have responded to a lot of fires in places difficult to access, requiring hiking in or fighting fire in steep, rugged terrain,” said Plumas National Forest Fire Management Officer Martin Senter. “Firefighters remain prepared and ready to respond as thunderstorms start again this week.”
In addition to local Forest firefighters, cover resources and state and local firefighting agencies are helping ensure a strong response.
“There are national forests in California and across the Western United States that are dealing with large fires right now,” Senter said. “So far the Plumas has been fortunate that we have been able to keep fires small and provide firefighting resources to help on the larger incidents.”
Holdover lightning fires can smolder for days and even weeks following a thunderstorm. It can take several days of dry and warm weather for these fires to become visible. While more lightning fires were discovered over the holiday weekend, it is expected there will be more.
Firefighters will continue to monitor conditions and respond to lightning fires as they are discovered in the coming days.
Area residents and visitors are asked to report suspected wildfires by calling 911.
The Plumas National Forest remains under Stage II Fire Restrictions, with campfires only allowed in designated recreation areas with a campground host present.
Anyone working or recreating in the Forest is asked to be aware of the current restrictions and to be careful with anything that can spark a wildfire.
“We appreciate not only the excellent work of our firefighters, but also the public’s cooperation, especially as we continue to respond to lightning fires in the coming days,” Senter said.