New Fire Outbreaks Ignite Across Oregon Following Intense Lightning Storms

by | Jul 18, 2024 | News

Share This Article

In the wake of over a thousand lightning strikes across Oregon in the past 48 hours, numerous new fires have been ignited, particularly within the Umpqua National Forest. Among these, the Trail Fire stands out as the largest, currently estimated at around 200 acres and burning just east of Diamond Lake. Authorities have issued Level 2 and Level 3 evacuation orders for nearby areas in Douglas County due to its rapid spread.

Additionally, the Lemolo Fire has prompted Level 1 evacuation warnings for the campgrounds and resort at Lemolo Lake. As of Wednesday night, this fire had grown to approximately 15 acres.

For real-time updates on evacuation orders for both the Trail Fire and Lemolo Fire, residents are encouraged to visit the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page.

Several other fires sparked by lightning in the Umpqua National Forest have also been reported:

Do you love Oregon?

Sign up for monthly emails full of local travel inspiration and fun trip ideas. In each newsletter we'll share upcoming events, new things to do, hot dining spots and great travel ideas.

  • Jack Saddle Fire – Estimated at 5 acres, located about 14 miles northeast of Idleyld Park.
  • Lost Bucket Fire – Positioned near the Jack Saddle Fire, with DFPA air and ground resources deployed.
  • Donegan Fire – Estimated at 0.25 acres and fully contained with 100% fire line.
  • White Creek Fire – Estimated at 0.5 acres, with containment lines completed and 100% containment achieved.
  • Cultus Fire – Estimated at 1.5 acres, currently lined and 40% contained.
  • Slide Fire – Estimated at 0.5 acres, with a completed fire line and 100% containment.
  • Puddin Fire – Estimated at 0.5 acres, with a completed handline and 70% containment.
  • Tucker Fire – Estimated at 0.5 acres, with 10% containment, handlines, and hose lines laid around it.

On Wednesday night, Governor Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act due to a series of fires near Pilot Rock in Umatilla County, which are also suspected to be lightning-induced. The area is currently under a Level 3 - Go Now evacuation order. Updates on these fires can be found on the Umatilla County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page.

Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple emphasized the severe conditions firefighters are facing, stating, “The challenges our firefighters encounter are extraordinary. We are striving to provide the necessary resources to protect our communities from numerous wildfires burning across the state. It is crucial to prevent new fires and be prepared to evacuate if necessary.”

For an interactive map of large wildfires in Oregon and Washington, please click here.


Share This Article

Written By Tyler James

Tyler James, founder of That Oregon Life, is a true Oregon native whose love for his state runs deep. Since the inception of the blog in 2013, his unbridled passion for outdoor adventures and the natural beauty of Oregon has been the cornerstone of his work. As a father to two beautiful children, Tyler is always in pursuit of new experiences to enrich his family’s life. He curates content that not only reflects his adventures but also encourages others to set out and create precious memories in the majestic landscapes of Oregon. Tyler's vision and guidance are integral to his role as publisher and editor, shaping the blog into a source of inspiration for exploring the wonders of Oregon.

Related Articles

5.0 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Off Oregon Coast

5.0 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Off Oregon Coast

A magnitude 5.0 earthquake struck off the Oregon coast on Thursday evening, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The quake occurred at 4:58 p.m., approximately 75 miles west of Coos Bay. Earthquakes are not uncommon off the Oregon coast, as the...

X