Lightning starts fires in Northeast Oregon

Thunderstorms passing through northeast Oregon ignited several fires on lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry Northeast Oregon District.  Firefighters are currently responding to fires with partners from the US Forest Service, rural fire departments, and local contractors.  Significant rain fell under the core of the storm as it passed, but there was little moisture on the edges of the storm.

A fire in the Chestnut Springs area of Wallowa County is visible from the Minam Grade on Hwy 82.  This fire has several helicopters, 4 engines, 4 rappellers, and a dozer working on it.  A load of retardant from a Single Engine Air Tanker (SEAT) was dropped to slow the spread of the fire.  It is currently estimated at less than an acre.  Crews are close to finishing a wet line around the fire and  Matt Howard, Wallowa Unit Wildland Fire Supervisor says, "We're gonna catch it".  Fire fighters will continue to strengthen firelines and mop-up the fire.