New Wildfires Ignite in Cascade Range Following Recent Thunderstorms

In the wake of afternoon thunderstorms that swept over the Cascade Range this week, USDA Forest Service crews are actively responding to multiple new fire starts in the Diamond Lake District. Rapid spotting of smoke plumes has enabled swift deployment of aerial and ground resources to keep these incidents small and contained.

Active Fires and Response Status

• Tolo Fire (#256)
  • Location: Just south of Tolo Mountain, within the Mount Thielsen Wilderness
  • Size: Approximately 0.3 acre
  • Resources: Rappellers deployed to rappel from helicopters directly onto the fire perimeter
• Horn Fire (#253)
  • Location: East of Forked Horn Creek, adjacent to Forest Road #2734
  • Size: Approximately 0.5 acre
  • Resources: Smokejumpers on scene, conducting direct attack with hand tools and water drops
• Thirsty Fire (#250)
  • Location: Just north of Red Cinder Butte, outside the Mount Thielsen Wilderness
  • Size: Approximately 0.3 acre
  • Resources: Rappellers engaged in initial attack, reinforced by ground crews
• Linda Lake Fire (#246)
  • Containment: 100% contained; crews transitioning to mop-up operations
• Cascade Fire (#245)
  • Containment: 100% contained; final patrols complete

Crews continue to monitor all areas for new smoke reports. Any observations of fire or suspicious smoke should be reported immediately to the Roseburg Interagency Communications Center at (541) 957-3325, or by calling 911.

Current Fire Restrictions

• Fire Danger Level: HIGH
• Public Use Restrictions (Level 2):
  • Campfires allowed only in Forest Service–constructed rings and designated campfire sites
  • All fires must be fully extinguished—drown, stir, and feel embers until cold to the touch
• Industrial Fire Precaution Level: Remains at Level 2 (restrictions on industrial operations and equipment use)

These measures are critical to prevent human-caused wildfires, especially during thunderstorm season when dry lightning can ignite remote fuels.

Safety Reminder: No Drones Over Fires

Flying unmanned aircraft (drones) near active wildfires poses a serious hazard to aerial firefighting operations. If you launch a drone, air tankers and helicopters cannot operate in the area. Please do not fly drones anywhere near wildfire activity.

Stay Vigilant – Do Your Part
Your cooperation and prompt reporting help keep these fires small and protect firefighters’ safety. Ensure your campfire is fully out before leaving your site, pack out all trash, and maintain awareness of changing weather conditions. Together, we can minimize fire impacts and safeguard our forests.