Firefighters train in Central Oregon (Sunriver Fire and Rescue, Facebook)

LAKEVIEW, ORE. – Last night scattered thunderstorms across the South Central Oregon Fire Management Partnership (SCOFMP) area produced more than 1,500 lightning strikes in Klamath and Lake Counties.

So far firefighters have identified 10 fires from the lightning activity. All fires are less than one tenth of an acre with firefighting resources on scene. Three of the five SCFOMP have confirmed fires.

Fremont-Winema National Forest – two confirmed fires.
Bureau of Land Management – four confirmed fires.
Oregon Department of Forestry – four confirmed fires.

Isolated thunderstorms are predicted again today and through this evening.

Depending on the amount of moisture associated with the thunderstorms and the vegetation types on the ground, it can take several days for smoke to become visible from a lightning-caused wildfire. Firefighters refer to these fires as “holdovers.” Firefighters may be responding to new starts and holdovers throughout the weekend and early into next week.

Area residents and visitors can report suspected wildfires by calling 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.

Klamath Falls News coverage of the 2019 Wildfire Season is brought to you by Ace Towing.

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