Smokey Skies From Pony Fire

Smoke from a 900 acre fire burning west of Hwy 96  and east of Klamath smears the skies of Humboldt today leaving a taste of ash in our normally fresh air. The Pony Fire is only 20% contained though it started by lightning three days ago. However, it is burning on rugged and remote hillsides. The blaze is within the former Swillup Fire burn.

“We’re using lines from the Swillup Fire,” explained a spokesperson for the Forest Service. They are working to repair and reopen the old fire lines to stop the blaze. The Forest Service, she said, is also preparing people along Hwy 96 who have homes that might possibly be impacted.

Unfortunately, high winds are predicted on the ridge tops with warmer and dryer conditions so the next couple of days could be “interesting,” according to a former firefighter.

Expect smoke as long as the north wind continues to blow. (Read more about the Pony Fire here.)

Earlier Chapter: Pony Fire: 600+ Acres Burn in the Klamath National Forest