A controlled burn in the Sierra set for tomorrow has been postponed.
Forecasts of low humidity and breezy conditions necessitated the change.
“Right now with the winds that are predicted, we would get into a situation where we would have too aggressive fire behavior and that’s why we’re postponing it.” Fire Management Officer for Lassen National Forest’s Almanor District Nicolaus Bunch said.
The Forest Service plans to light up 300 acres between Inskip and Jones Meadow in northeast Butte County, aiming to reduce ladder fuels and make future fires less destructive and easier to control.
Jennifer Erickson, Fuels Planner for the Forest’s Alamanor District said officials have tentatively rescheduled it to next Tuesday.
“Our smoke is going to be visible to Magalia, Paradise and probably Chico.” Erickson said.
About 70 firefighters will be on hand to monitor the fire as it consumes an estimated 2,250 tons of brush, slash and young trees.
Bunch said it’s possible to distinguish a controlled burn from an actual emergency.
“Mostly, if you’re looking at the smoke, if it’s light, white smoke, it’s most likely a prescribed fire. Unlike the large dark columns that you see in the summer.” Bunch said.
The forest service will provide updates on social media.