Fire crews within the Plumas National Forest continue responding to several lightning-caused fires on Monday, which began after thunderstorms moved through the area starting Saturday.
Nine lightning fires have been confirmed so far across the Beckwourth and Mount Hough Ranger Districts. The largest of the fires is approximately 1.6 acres. All the fires are currently staffed, and all but four are contained.
Fire Officials say there are no threats to communities or structures at this time.
According to officials, the thunderstorms brought significant rain, and some areas reported flooding. A Flood Watch remains in effect for the eastern half of the Plumas National Forest from noon through 9 p.m. today, as thunderstorms are expected to continue through Wednesday.
Although the rain has helped, officials say that holdover lightning fires may continue to emerge over the next several days, particularly as a drier weather pattern sets in later this week.
“The Forest took a lot of lightning this weekend and we are prepared to respond to resulting fires as they are discovered,” said Plumas National Forest Fire Management Officer Martin Senter. “We need the public’s help by calling 911 to report suspected wildfires, but also to use caution and prevent human-caused wildfires.”
Officials noted that holdover lightning fires can smolder for days or even weeks before becoming visible, often requiring several days of warm and dry conditions to surface. The public is urged to report any suspected wildfires by calling 911.
Firefighters will continue monitoring and responding as new fires are discovered.
“Our firefighters are doing a tremendous job, responding quickly and working to keep fires small,” Senter said. “Area residents and visitors can help firefighters by being careful with anything that can spark a wildfire, so we can continue to focus on lightning fire location and response.”
More information about the Plumas National Forest is available at www.fs.usda.gov/plumas
