Lightning Starts 13 New Fires in the Umpqua District

On Thursday, August 24, 2023, around 8:30 p.m., a lightning storm moved across the skies of the Douglas District, bringing with it a confirmed 65 lightning strikes. All Douglas County Fire agencies have been actively engaged in lightning reconnaissance throughout the night and continuing into this morning. The Douglas Forest Protective Association (DFPA), as of 9:30 a.m. on August 25, 2023, has responded to 40 lightning recon calls and is actively engaged in 13 confirmed fires. All of these fires are currently in an aggressive initial attack. Most confirmed fires are located on the west side of the district, with a few on the east side. Thankfully, this morning’s moisture is keeping fire activity low. Hipower Fire, Steamboat / Canton Creek Area: This fire is estimated to be 40 – 50 acres and is located in the Umpqua National Forest (UNF) in an area of mutually shared protection. Currently, this fire is staffed with DFPA, UNF, and landowner resources. Rattlesnake Ridge & Cougar Creek Fires: These fires are in the Umpqua area, nearest to Hubbard Creek, with the largest estimated to be 15 - 20 acres. These fires are heavily staffed with DFPA and contract crews. Tyee Mountain Fires There are 3 fires located in the Tyee Mountain area, with the largest estimated to be 7 – 10 acres. These fires are heavily staffed. The smoke from these fires is heavily visible in the area. Big Dutchman, Soldier Creek, and Woods Creek / Windy Creek Fires: These fires are in the southern part of the district with active engagement. The largest of these fires is estimated to be 2 – 2.5 acres. Aerial reconnaissance was attempted this early morning, however, fog and drift smoke caused limited visibility and our plane was grounded. Once safe visibility is obtainable, air recon will relaunch. DFPA is currently fully staffed, and multiple resources are on order, including hand crews, engines, tenders, fallers, and dozers. Regional resources, including landowner resources, are heavily active and engaged. At this time, there are NO STRUCTURES threatened by these fires. An afternoon update will be shared with more information as it evolves. Via DFPA