SALEM, Ore. — At 6:20 a.m. today, Governor Kate Brown approved an emergency conflagration declaration for the White River Fire in Wasco County. That fire is threatening the community of Pine Grove. At the time of the declaration, 108 residences were under level 3 mandatory evacuation orders, with an additional 192 homes under level 2 and 1.
“This month, firefighting resources have been stretched to deal with 11 large wildfires,” said Governor Kate Brown. “I am asking all Oregonians to remain vigilant with any activity that could spark a wildfire. We all need to do our part to help the many firefighters who are on the frontlines by preventing human-caused wildfires during the COVID-19 pandemic. If you are heading outdoors this weekend, please follow all fire restrictions.”
In accordance with ORS 476.510 – 476.610, Governor Brown determined that a threat to a life, safety, and property exists due to fire, and the threat exceeds the firefighting capabilities of local firefighting personnel and equipment. The Governor’s declaration authorizes the Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal to mobilize resources to assist local resources battling the fire.
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