Although autumn has arrived, weather conditions in Oregon are still creating high wildfire potential across the state.
FIRE WEATHER and FIRE PREVENTION
In Southern Oregon, there will be a slight cooling trend but high temps will remain above normal and the air mass will remain very dry. In NE Oregon forecast calls for very dry and locally breezy conditions both today and Saturday, especially along the east slopes of the Cascades and in the Columbia River Gorge. In NW Oregon there are red flag warnings in effect for most areas this afternoon.
Campfires are still a concern in many areas. Open fires, including campfires, remain prohibited on forestlands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry. On forestlands or in areas when campfires are allowed, they should be put completely out before leaving the campsite — drown the fire with an abundance of water, stir and separate the hot coals, and drown again until all of the heat has been removed.
A few fire prevention tips for private forest landowners and operators:
1) Monitor weather conditions – such as humidity and wind – and consider earlier close-down of operations if the weather warrants it;
2) keep equipment in good working order and free from flammable debris, as well as parking it away from flammable material when shutting down for the day;
3) Fire Watches – stay on high alert; and
4) Be prepared by performing daily checks of fire suppression and communications equipment.
FIRES ON ODF-PROTECTED LANDS
No new fires 10 acres in size or larger on ODF-protected lands were reported to the Salem Coordination Center during the past 24 hours.
FIRES ON OTHER LANDS
The Pole Creek Fire, burning six miles southwest of Sisters in mature timber and down, bug-killed timber, is 26,510 acres, and 85% contained. The east side of the fire was relatively calm yesterday as crews have completed most of the fire suppression objectives. Very little smoke was observed near the fire perimeter. All of the planned fire line construction has been completed; crews will continue to patrol the area for the next few days. Along the northern edge of the fire, excess fire hose and equipment is being back-hauled to camp to return to Redmond Fire Cache. This area is in patrol status.
There may still be periods of time when smoke concentrations become uncomfortable. Those with respiratory issues may wish to consult the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality website for tips on smoke mitigation: http://www.deq.state.or.us/aqi/wildfire/index.htm
Residents are reminded that we are still in fire season and this fire is not contained. Due to hunters in the woods and continued dry conditions, new fire starts are a possibility and citizens should monitor available information sources and stay alert. The cause of the fire is under investigation. Full containment is expected by October 15. For more info: 541-549-6935.
The lightning-caused Bald Mountain Fire, which started on September 18 and is burning in sub-alpine fir 12 miles southwest of Enterprise in the Eagle Cap Wilderness, has been mapped at 1,009 acres and is uncontained. Minimal fire behavior reported last night. Trail closures are in place and visitors are advised to contact the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, who is managing this fire, prior to entering the area.