Lightning-Sparked Newman Fire Reported in Sierra Valley
Forest Service crews responded and searched for additional lightning starts.
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A photo of the Newman Fire shared by the Sierra County Sheriff’s Office.
SIERRA VALLEY — Firefighters are responding today to the Newman Fire, a small single-tree fire discovered in the Sierra Valley after a lightning storm moved through the area Thursday night. The fire, in Sierra County, is believed to have been caused by a lightning strike, according to the Sierra County Sheriff’s Office.
The U.S. Forest Service is on scene, ordering a helicopter to help with suppression efforts. The agency also plans aerial reconnaissance flights throughout the day to search for additional fires that may have been started by lightning.
The fire followed a night of thunderstorms across the eastern Sierra and northeastern California. The National Weather Service in Reno warned Friday that fast-moving thunderstorms could create a threat of new lightning ignitions, with Red Flag Warnings in effect today for parts of northeastern California and western Nevada.
The Sheriff’s Office asked people in the area to stay alert for smoke. “Residents and visitors are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any signs of smoke or fire by calling 911 immediately.”