For Release: June 27, 2006
Contact: Mary Loan 760-937-0053

Lightning Causes Multiple Fires in the Eastern Sierra

Lightning storms in the Eastern Sierra this week resulted in multiple fire starts on the Inyo National Forest (Inyo NF) and local Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands. Most of these fires have remained small, but one large fire in the Owens Valley has resulted in evacuations of area residents and visitors.

The Goodale Fire, started by lightning on the afternoon of June 26, near the community of Aberdeen, has grown to approximately 2000 acres, as of noon on June 27. It is 30% contained, with no estimate for full containment. The fire is burning on both Inyo National Forest lands and Bureau of Land Management, Bishop Field Office, lands under California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CDF) responsibility, and is being managed through a unified command between the Owens Valley division of CDF and the Inyo interagency fire management organization. The fire resulted in mandatory evacuations of the Goodale Creek campground and voluntary evacuations of Aberdeen. Goodale Creek campground remains closed until risk to the public is mitigated.

The western flank of the fire is most active and may be active for several days. During this time, the fire may be visible at night. Smoke from the fire may also impact the Owens Valley, and residents who are sensitive to smoke issues should take appropriate precautions.

Fire managers are utilizing all resources to fight the fire aggressively through direct suppression efforts. Approximately 150 personnel are assigned to the fire, including hand crews, engines, air tankers, helicopters and overhead resources.

The lightning storms were very active, with nearly 1000 lightning strikes recorded. Several other fires started in the area, as a result of the storms. These fires have remained small, but all have personnel assigned to them.

Another recent fire, the Ghost Fire, has been contained and controlled as of June 26th. This fire, in the upper reaches of Sawmill Canyon on the north side of Glass Mountain, burned 84 acres, and was started by lightning on June 24th.

For more information about these lightning fires, please contact Mary Loan, fire information officer, at 760-937-0053.

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BLM Bishop Field Office and Inyo National Forest
351 Pacu Lane, Suite 200 Bishop, CA 93514