A controlled burn near the mile-high communities of Pine Cove and Idyllwild got underway Thursday amid calm conditions, which fire crews plan to take advantage of again Friday to torch excess vegetation that might otherwise fuel wildfires in the summer months.
Residents of the mountain communities, as well as motorists traveling Highways 74, 243 and Interstate 10, were advised not to be alarmed by rising smoke columns in the area on Thursday and Friday while the burns are going.
According to the Riverside County Fire Department, crews are targeting no more than 10 acres of excess foliage for eradication, most of which will be in the form of slash piles.
“A prescribed fire is one of the most effective tools available to reduce hazardous fuels and lessen the severity of future wildfires,” the agency stated. “Burning operations consist of igniting previously constructed vegetation piles.”
All of the activity is concentrated in the Red Hills Project Area within the San Bernardino National Forest, officials said.
The burn began shortly after 7 a.m. Thursday and will conclude before nightfall. Another operation is scheduled during the same hours Friday.
“Drift smoke may be visible from nearby communities, but will disperse quickly and is not expected to be a health hazard,” the fire department said.
Light precipitation and minimal wind is forecast for the area until Saturday, creating ideal conditions for prescribed burns.
Operations are closely monitored and immediately suspended when there are signs of strengthening winds or extremely low humidity.
No road closures are in effect due to the burns.