The warm, dry conditions in Oregon this summer have produced more
wildfires than average. The Oregon Department of Forestry reports 617 fires to
date. The decadal average is just 432 fires. The good news is, this year’s
fires have burned less forest – about 3,200 acres compared to the annual
average of more than 16,000 acres. In 2015, firefighters have been able to stop
most fires at relatively small size. But this coming weekend will be a test.
Extremely hot, dry conditions are forecast. That increases the likelihood
that any new fires will spread rapidly. Lightning fires just happen. But
human-caused fires can be prevented. Please help keep the numbers low by being
mindful of fire safety in the forest.
