Firefighters make significant progress on containing lightning caused fires
Written by Press Release on August 19, 2022
Roseburg, Ore., – Firefighters are making significant progress toward extinguishing the multiple starts on Umpqua National Forest from Wednesday’s thunderstorms. A total of 10 confirmed fires have been reported to Roseburg Interagency Communication Center to date. All fires are currently staffed by resources of smokejumpers, heli-rappellers, engine modules, fallers, and hand crews all working towards containment of each fire. Helicopters are providing support to firefighters on the ground with water drops. Forest priorities include extinguishing the two fires near the Bohemia Mining District on the North Zone – North Umpqua Ranger District.
Aerial detection flights are planned through-out the day to continue to scout for additional starts.
Oregon Department of Forestry and Bureau of Land Management officials have confirmed the death of a firefighter on a fire in Josephine County. The incident took place on Thursday, August 18, 2022. The Umpqua National Forest staff and employees’ deepest sympathies are with the family, friends and fellow firefighters during this time.
