In Seneca, Oregon, search operations have resumed for a single-engine air tanker (SEAT plane) and its pilot, both reported missing while assisting with firefighting efforts on a new lightning-sparked fire. The plane was contracted by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and went missing near Seneca on the Malheur National Forest.

The missing aircraft was engaged in fighting the Falls Fire, a massive blaze that has been raging for over two weeks and covers nearly 142,000 acres. With over 1,500 firefighters battling the "mega-fire," it is one of several such large-scale fires currently scorching the state of Oregon.

According to Thomas Kyle-Milward, spokesperson for the Northwest Incident Management Team 8, the SEAT plane was last reported missing around 7 p.m. on Thursday. The aircraft, operated by a single pilot, has the capacity to carry 800 gallons of water or retardant. It was based out of the Burns Municipal Airport.

Search efforts on Thursday involved firefighters, deputies from the Harney and Grant County sheriff's offices, and even the National Guard, which deployed aircraft equipped with night-vision technology to aid in the search. However, the pilot and plane were not located overnight.

The Falls Fire, which erupted on July 10th, continues to pose significant challenges. Strong winds and dry conditions on Thursday fueled fire behavior, leading to new fire starts in the Parasol Butte area. As a result, evacuation levels were issued and extended, with crews working to minimize fire growth and protect structures.

Firefighters have made notable progress in containing the Falls Fire, with control lines holding in areas previously threatened, including the Red Hill area and the Izee community. Preparation work has been completed near the Sand Fire, allowing resources to shift to combat the rapidly growing Telephone Fire.

Meanwhile, efforts to tackle the multiple new fires within the Falls and Telephone Fire Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) area continue. The largest of these new starts, the Parasol Fire, has already consumed an estimated 353 acres. Firefighters from various locations have been assigned to manage these new blazes.

As the search for the missing SEAT plane and pilot intensifies, the public's assistance is being sought by U.S. Forest Service fire investigators to gather any tips or information regarding the start of the Falls Fire. Anyone with relevant information is urged to email it to SM.FS.R6TipHotLine@usda.gov.

While smoky conditions persist and gusty winds are expected later in the day, progress is being made in containing the various fires. Evacuations remain in effect in both Grant and Harney Counties, and select areas within the Malheur National Forest have been temporarily closed due to active fires, poor weather conditions, and limited firefighting resources.

The search for the missing SEAT plane serves as a stark reminder of the risks and challenges faced by the brave men and women fighting these devastating wildfires in Oregon.