Lightning ignites forest fires

Lightning sparked numerous small fires in the Okanogan and Wenatchee National Forests this week, with several still burning Friday.

The state Department of Natural Resources warned that thunderstorms moving through Eastern Washington this weekend raised concerns about additional lightning-caused fires.

“This system is expected to bring several thunderstorms and high winds,” the department said in a statement. “After several days of hot, dry weather, this prediction is a concern for wildfire managers.”

The 3-acre Junction fire was burning on the border of the Chelan Ranger District and North Cascades National Park, approximately one mile west of Dolly Varden Campground. A 20-person crew worked the fire Friday, aided by a helicopter making water drops, according to the Forest Service.

Four fires burning in the northwestern portion of the Pasayten Wilderness, one mile south of the Canadian border, combined into two fires that were estimated at between 100 and 400 acres Friday. Fire managers flew over the area Friday to determine the best way to fight the Freezeout Fire.