TAHOE FOREST — According to the Forest Service, the Tahoe National Forest has received nearly 300 lightning strikes since Friday, causing five wildfires. The largest is the Palen Fire, a 3-acre wildfire just a few miles southwest of Loyalton. On Saturday, the Sierra County Sheriff’s Office prepared to evacuate the Loyalton Pines community if necessary. However, the Forest Service’s fire lines were held overnight into Sunday, and as of Tuesday, the fire is at 90% containment. Also started by lightning strikes were the Alpine, Sand, Crystal, and Talbot fires, all contained.

The Royal Fire, a 215-acre fire southwest of Truckee, has also been 95% contained. The Forest Service issued a final incident update on Tuesday, stating that efforts to repair damage caused by fire suppression attempts are underway. The public is advised to stay away from recently burned areas since fire-weakened trees can be easily downed due to wind.