Big Bear, Ca, August 26, 2010, 3:00pm – According to John Miller, Public Information Officer for the US Forest Service there has been 13 total lightning fires that have started since yesterday. The most current are three spot fires called the Blue Sky Fire, and the Heartbreak #1 and #2 fire, that started due to lightening near Onyx Summit. Thunderstorms and lightening is expected to continue into the night. When lightning strikes occur the US Forest Service sends an aircraft to identify areas of smoke, and crews are sent to the scene to contain the small fires. At this time all fires are less than 1 acre in size and generally are confined to a tree or a small area of vegetation. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration warns citizens about lightning strikes. “Positively charged lightning can occur near the edge of a cloud or strike more than 10 miles away – when people aren’t aware of the danger.” According to the National Weather Service the vast majority of lightning injuries and deaths on boats occur on small boats with NO cabin. It is crucial to listen to the weather when you are boating. If thunderstorms are forecast, don’t go out. If you are out on the water and skies are threatening, get back to land and find a safe building or safe vehicle. The National Weather Service also advises “When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors.”
