Salem-News.com Oregon Wildfire articles

740 Homes Threatened by Oregon Wildfire

Tonight, fire control work will focus on holding all constructed fire lines, continuing burnout operations, and conducting an infrared flight tonight over the fire.

(ROWENA, Ore. ) - Crews from the Oregon Department of Forestry and Oregon State Fire Marshal's Office worked throughout the day on Friday to conduct burnout operations and improve containment lines.

No structures were lost during Friday's operations, which focused on burning off dry fuel and creating defensible space around homes and outbuildings in the town of Rowena.

Governor Declares State of Emergency to Fight Wildfires

The Oregon National Guard is now authorized to deploy firefighting assets as needed throughout the fire season based on threat and resource shortfalls.

(SALEM, Ore. ) - Oregon Governor John Kitzhaber on Wednesday, verbally declared a state of emergency in response to wildfire activity across the state.

The emergency declaration enables the Oregon National Guard to mobilize resources on an as-needed basis to assist the Department of Forestry, the Oregon State Fire Marshal's Office, and others with firefighting.

Southern Oregon Wildfire Continues to Grow

The fire is only 5 percent contained at this time.

(KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. ) - The Bryant Fire reported Thursday afternoon burning 20 miles east of Klamath Falls on the NE end of Bryant Mountain has grown to 1,200 acres.

The fire is burning in an active logging operation in felled and bucked timber on steep, rugged terrain.

Wildfire Breaks Out Near Hood River

Weather conditions in central Oregon are extremely dry for this time of year.

(HOOD RIVER, Ore. ) - Oregon Department of Forestry firefighters responded to a 50 to 75 acre wildfire early Wednesday morning about 10 miles south of the community of Hood River.

Oregon Department of Forestry spokesman says the fire was reported at 3:45 a.m., and is burning on private forestland.