Wildfires in Pennsylvania’s Michaux State Forest Scorch Over 1,300 Acres

CUMBERLAND COUNTY, Pa. (WHP) — Two wildfires in Pennsylvania‘s Michaux State Forest have scorched more than 1,300 acres as crews continue their fight against the blazes. The fires, named the Thompson Hollow Fire and the Hammonds Rock Fire, erupted earlier this week and have prompted voluntary evacuations.

The Thompson Hollow Fire ignited around 5 p.m. Wednesday in Southampton Township near Shippensburg and Baltimore roads. As of Friday morning, the fire has grown to approximately 1,150 acres. The Hammonds Rock Fire began around noon Thursday in the vicinity of Ridge and Cold Springs roads, affecting roughly 200 acres.

According to Josh Thompson, a spokesperson for the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, the recent drop in temperature and increased humidity have aided firefighting efforts. “The weather moderated the growth and intensity of the fire,” Thompson said. “It helped fire crews make significant progress.”

Firefighters established control lines, which are crucial for containing wildfires. “We find a hard place where we can stop it, and then we work to contain it from there,” Thompson explained. Additionally, crews conducted backfiring operations to prevent further spread by burning fuel ahead of the approaching fire.

Although progress has been made, Thompson urged caution: “Just because there is containment doesn’t mean the fire is completely out. There are many acres interior that will continue to smolder for days or weeks.”

Evacuation notices were issued for areas including Shippensburg Road and Whitmer Road. Residents have been advised to evacuate to the Southampton Township municipal building at 200 Airport Road in Shippensburg.

As they work to contain the fires, emergency personnel are also dealing with road closures in the area, including Shippensburg/Baltimore and Thompson Hollow roads. Public safety officials stressed the importance of respecting these closures to protect both firefighters and the public.

The cause of the fires remains under investigation. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection has warned of reduced air quality due to smoke from the wildfires affecting nearby communities.

As of now, both fires are at 0% containment, and crews will continue to work tirelessly until they can ensure the fires are fully under control.