The Oregon State Fire Marshal is calling on residents and visitors in Oregon are being urged to take preventive measures against wildfires due to high fire danger.
The eastern region of the state is expected to experience significant lightning, winds up to 60 miles per hour, and high temperatures.
Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple stated: “We are working with every tool we have to protect people and property.”
She expressed gratitude for the relentless efforts of the Oregon structural fire service, out-of-state firefighters, and wildland partners, describing the current situation as a monumental challenge.
The response from the structural fire service has been extensive, with the OSFM mobilizing 489 firefighters, approximately 143 engines, and 32 water tenders to safeguard communities across the state.
The OSFM has dedicated resources to several fires, including the Lone Rock/Boneyard Fire affecting Gilliam, Morrow, Grant, and Wheeler counties, and the Falls Fire in Harney and Grant counties.
Additional efforts are focused on the Durkee Fire in Baker and Malheur counties, the Battle Mountain Complex in Grant and Umatilla counties, and the Microwave Tower Fire in Wasco County.
The agency is continuously assessing the capacity within the Oregon Fire Mutual Aid System and coordinating with out-of-state partners to ensure readiness for new fire outbreaks.
When wildfires threaten communities, the OSFM provides structural protection resources and collaborates closely with wildland partners from the Oregon Department of Forestry, the Bureau of Land Management, tribal agencies, and the U.S. Forest Service.
Approximately 90 individuals are involved in the OSFM’s three incident management teams currently deployed.
Since July 9, the Emergency Conflagration Act has been invoked seven times to address various fire incidents.
Most recently, the Emergency Conflagration Act was invoked for the Battle Mountain Complex in Grant and Umatilla counties on Sunday.
This action by Governor Tina Kotek enabled the OSFM to dispatch firefighters and equipment to protect nearby communities.