Fire managers throughout Oregon are feeling the heat. Continued hot, dry weather is plaguing the region that could lead to a significant fire from a single spark.

 

A warm east wind event contributed to several fires Wednesday afternoon and evening. Fire crews from the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF), forest protective associations and rural fire departments worked overtime to contain grass and brush fires throughout the state fueled by winds in excess of 20 mph. A Red Flag Warning for high winds and low humidity will continue through Saturday for much of western Oregon.

 

ODF and the Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone that outdoor debris burning remains prohibited in most areas throughout the state during this period of high fire danger. Campfires, while only allowed in designated campgrounds, should not be built at all under the current conditions. In addition, motor vehicles are only allowed on improved roads that are free of flammable vegetation. For a complete list of restrictions in specific areas, log on to www.oregon.gov/ODF.

 

Private forest landowners are also well aware of the lingering fire danger, and many have closed their lands to public access. Sportsmen are encouraged to seek landowner permission for access in advance. A list of corporate land closures can also be found at www.oregon.gov/ODF.

 

Finally, fire weather forecasters are predicting this continued warm and dry spell over the next two weeks. Fire season will remain in effect until significant precipitation occurs where the threat of a fire starting is close to nil.

 

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