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Fire suppression efforts continue on the Ore Fire, which is burning 7 miles northeast of Blue River, Oregon.  Firefighters face a number of challenges which include steep and inaccessible terrain, falling rocks and rolling debris, fire-weakened trees, and extreme weather conditions. Firefighter and public safety remain the number one priority on the incident.

Yesterday, firefighter efforts were ongoing, monitoring and patrolling the fire perimeter along the FS 1509 and FS 15 Roads. Moderate fire behavior was observed with some creeping, backing and flanking.  There was small growth on the western edge of the fire as warmer conditions moved in during the day. Hose lays and sprinklers were positioned near areas of increased fire activity and strategically placed along the southern and western perimeter of the fire.  Hand and dozer line construction was completed connecting the newly created helicopter landing zone to FS 1509 Road adding another line of containment.

Today, heavy equipment operators will continue to remove woody debris and fuels on the northern end of the fire. Chipping of woody debris is ongoing along these roadways. Firefighters will be working closely with Resource Advisors to minimize the impact of fire suppression activities. Crews working both the day and night shifts will continue to hold the fire perimeter to the south, preventing fire spread into critical infrastructure and identified values at risk.

Weather: Yesterday some areas experienced temperatures near triple digits. Highs in the mountains were in the mid-80s. Today cloud coverage will ease temperatures in the valley to low 80s and high 70s in the mountains. As a result, fire activity will be moderate which may increase smoke conditions.

Smoke: Smoke from numerous wildfires burning throughout the state will affect air quality in many areas over the coming days, and can be a burden for many, especially those with respiratory issues. For information on air quality in your area go to: www.airnow.gov. 

Closures and Fire Restrictions: Area, road, trail, and recreation site closures are in place on the Willamette National Forest in the vicinity of many active fires. Temporary road barricades are in place to restrict traffic across the fire areas. For specific closure information follow this link: 
https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/willamette/alerts-notices/?cid=fseprd552029

Fire restrictions on the Willamette National Forest may be found at this link: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/willamette/alerts-notices/?aid=81487

Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFR) remain in place over the Ore Fire. Wildfires are a no-fly zone for unauthorized aircraft, including drones. If you fly, we can’t. For more information, visit http://knowbeforeyoufly.org.