Fire Officials Downsize Lyons Blaze

Firefighters continue mop up operations near Lyons Dam this afternoon

Size of the fire in the steep terrain and thick brush below Lyons Reservoir Dam has been downsized from early estimates of 20 acres last night, to about five acres today.

The fire broke out around 4 p.m. yesterday afternoon and was contained some 4 hours later. At one point during the battle, 200 firefighters were on the lines with 4 air tankers and 4 helicopters working from above.

Residents can expect to see residual smoke for several more days. A helicopter will be standing by in case of any spotting or flare-ups. Crews also plan to keep an air tanker on alert at Columbia Airport.

Fire officials feel lucky, considering the tinder-dry condition on the forest floor that this fire did not grow any larger. Cause remains under investigation.