Wildfires: Smoke, ash drifts into local areas

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CalFire) reports area wildfire smoke and ash from regional wildfires can been seen throughout Humboldt and Del Norte Counties.

In a a Facebook post, CalFire asks that the public refrain from calling 911 unless they see flames or a distinct smoke column.

"Our local dispatch centers are receiving numerous calls in reference to the drift smoke in our area," the Facebook post reads. "Answering these calls takes time and equipment away from true emergencies."

The National Weather Service Eureka said much of the smoke and ash in Crescent City came from a new, very active fire in Siskiyou County pushed by strong offshore winds.

Meteorologists added there is also activity on the Red Salmon Complex near Hoopa adding to the congestion, which they don't expect to dissipate until Thursday.

Kymmie Scott, Del Norte County Emergency Services Manager, encourages local residents to sign up for community alerts at preparedelnorte.com in case a fire springs up locally.