FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 3, 2013
DURANGO – The Durango Interagency Fire Dispatch Center reports more than 300 lightning strikes since noon today from a dry lightning storm in the western portion of the San Juan Public Lands. Firefighters are responding to at least six small wildfires (reported at less than one acre in size at this time) in the Weber Mountain, Cedar Mesa and Mud Creek areas. A Mesa Verde National Park helicopter has responded to the lightning strike reported on the north side of Weber Mountain. U.S. Forest Service, BLM and local fire department crews are responding to two lightning strikes in the Mud Creek area and three in the Cedar Mesa area. The Craig Hotshots are positioned in the area ready to respond as needed. Also this afternoon a downed power line south of Bayfield resulted in a small fire. The Southern Ute Fire Agency and La Plata County have responded.
The public is reminded that conditions are extremely dry, and fire danger is increasing. Please be extra careful with fire and report smoke to dispatch at 385-1324 or by calling 911.