See Smoke Near Idyllwild, San Jacinto Mountains? Here's Why

PINE COVE, CA — If you spy a smoke pillar in the Pine Cove area, near McGovern Road and Pine Cove Road, on Wednesday morning, don't be alarmed. A prescribed burn is underway.

At 10 a.m., several 911 callers reported seeing smoke and concerns about a wildfire, though California Highway Patrol dispatch stated that this area is under a prescribed burn.

The U.S. Forest Service, San Jacinto Ranger District, expanded on the smoke sighting with further explanation.

"You may see smoke in the air in the Idyllwild area today," The U.S. Forest Service stated. "About 15 acres of pile burning will start today on the San Jacinto Ranger District in the area circled in red on the map attached. Please watch for warning signs and firefighters if you are anywhere around the Pine Cove Community."

Ignitions began at 10 a.m., and are estimated to be completed by the end of the day, Wednesday.