Lightning strikes over the weekend ignited four fires in the Malheur National Forest, while the Rail Fire, southwest of Unity, continues to grow.

Two fires were reported in the Monument Rock Wilderness Area with another two in the Emigrant Creek Ranger District.

A 63-acre fire near Lunch Creek has been surrounded by fire lines created by three fire crews who are continuing mop up efforts. A quarter-acre fire, located southwest of Monument Rock Wilderness Area, is reported as contained.

Both fires in the Emigrant Creek Area have been contained, one at 2.5 acres and the other at half an acre.

The 10,702-acre Rail Fire has entered the Monument Rock Wilderness Area and is being battled by 765 people: 26 crews, 10 dozers, 29 engines, 19 water tenders and seven helicopters. The fire, which started July 31, is 10-percent contained, but cool weather and cloud cover have given firefighters more time to construct and improve fire lines as well as prepare for burnout operations.

A small firefighting camp has been set up near the Sheep Creek Trailhead, and mop up operations will begin in areas where the fire is not expected to grow.

Chainsaw and campfire use are being restricted in the Malheur National Forest as the Industrial Fire Precaution Level is at three, and the fire danger rating remains at high. For more information on the restrictions, contact any of the following forest offices: Malheur National Forest Supervisor and Blue Mountain Ranger District office, 541-575-3000; Prairie City Ranger District, 541-820-3800; Emigrant Creek Ranger District, 541-573-4300.

To report a wildfire, call John Day Interagency Dispatch Center at 541-575-1321 or the Burns Interagency Dispatch center at 541-573-1000.