Klamath Falls, Ore. –Scattered thunderstorms moved across portions South Central Oregon Fire Management Partnership (SCOFMP) protected lands this afternoon and evening.

Multiple fires were reported this afternoon in Klamath County with the largest fire is approximately 1500 acres.

The Ward Fire located 18 miles southwest of Klamath Falls. Multiple ground and air resources are on scene and more resources are being order. The fire is burning on private and BLM land. Resources on scene include Oregon Department of Forestry, Forest Service, BLM and private industry. The fire is burning in grass, juniper and industry timber lands could be affected.

Oregon State Police are no longer restricting traffic on Hwy 66 west of Ward Road.

This evening Oregon Department of Forestry has ordered an incident management team that will arrive tomorrow to help support this incident. Extra resources from outside the area are also on order.

Additionally, there are several fires in the area of Pelican Butte, Chase Mountain, and Fourmile Lake on the Fremont-Winema National Forest. Resources are enroute.

A red flag warning went into effect at 11 am today through 10 pm Saturday for abundant lightning on dry fuels in south central Oregon.

Area residents and visitors can report suspected wildfires by calling the Lakeview Interagency Fire Center at 541-947-6315.

Public and firefighter safety is the top priority for all SCOFMP personnel.

While firefighters are busy responding to lightning fires, it’s even more important to remember always make sure your campfire is dead out and never leave a campfire unattended.

More information will be shared as lightning fire response continues.

As a reminder, the “Fire Season in effect” declaration puts into place regulations restricting debris burning and timber harvest operations. For more information please visit https://www.oregon.gov/ODF/Fire/Pages/Restrictions.aspx

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