On May 17, 2024, two lightning-caused fires were detected in the White Mountain Wilderness in the Smokey Bear Ranger District, Lincoln National Forest. Blue Fire and Blue Fire 2 are being closely monitored by the Smokey Bear Ranger District.  Currently, Blue Fire 2 is approximately 5 acres and growing.Currently, the overall strategy on the Blue Fires is to allow the low-to-moderate intensity of spread to play its natural role on the landscape. Recent precipitation, as well as the slow spread of the fires and rocky terrain, have all led to this determination. Crews will take appropriate actions to keep the fire within the designated planned boundaries while protecting private land, infrastructure, and natural resources.  The fire is being monitored by air and ground resources, to help predict expected fire behavior and rates of spread.

Dead and dead/down trees, located within fire scar.

Utilizing air and ground crews to monitor wildfire.  Crews will take appropriate actions to keep the fire within the designated planned boundaries while protecting private land, infrastructure, and natural resources.  The fire is being monitored by air and ground resources, to help predict expected fire behavior and rates of spread.