Forest Crews Monitor Lightning Fires
Firefighters on the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest are monitoring for possible holdover fires after more than 2,000 lightning strikes were recorded across the forest area in 24 hours. The agency said crews responded to reported strikes and visible smoke while continuing prescribed fire work designed to reduce ground fuels under favorable spring conditions.
New Aircraft Boosts Oregon Wildfire Response Capabilities
The Oregon Department of Forestry has added a new multi-mission aircraft designed to improve wildfire detection, night operations, and all-hazards emergency response. Officials say the Twin Otter-based platform includes AI-enabled mapping, thermal imaging, and the ability to detect new fire starts earlier — even during overnight operations.