Just before 5 p.m. today, several vegetation fires sprang up in the Weitchpec area. Cal Fire aircraft quickly ascertained that there were three fires between Martin’s Ferry Bridge and the Weitchpec school.

According to Cal Fire Capt. Ron Mclaughlin, the US Forest Service, Blue Lake Fire, Willow Creek Fire and Fortuna Fire all responded alongside Cal Fire. There were nine engines, three water tenders, three hand crews, one air attack, three air tankers and two helicopters committed to fight the blazes.

All the fires are now contained at one, two and three acres respectively. Investigators are on the scene attempting to determine the cause.

“With the drought conditions and how dry the vegetation is,” said Capt. McLaughlin, “it is more like late August than July.” He pointed out that people need to be especially careful with BBQ’s and campfires. Fires need to be fully extinguished before being left.

For more information on how to prevent wildfires go here.