Northeast Oregon District lightning fires-August 20, 2018

La Grande, OR-Northeast Oregon ODF resources are responding to fires across the district today, following thunderstorms Sunday night and Monday morning. ODF resources have responded to 21 fires across the district. Most of these incidents are ¼ acre or smaller.

The Calamity Fire, located approximately 11 miles east of Pilot Rock, is burning in grass, shrubs and timber. The fire has burned 79 acres. As of this afternoon, the fire is 80% contained. Crews worked overnight and through the day on improving control lines and mopping up.

The Beaver Creek Fire, located approximately 12 miles west of La Grande, is approximately 75 acres. The fire is burning in grass and timber on steep terrain. Helicopters and ground resources have responded to incident. The fire is 0% contained at this time.

The Hardy Fire, located approximately 7 miles north of Elgin, is approximately ½ acre and is burning in grass and timber. Helicopters and ground resources are on scene. This fire is 0% contained at this time.

Heavy smoke from fires outside the area are hampering fire detection efforts. Fire managers ask the public to be vigilant as they are traveling through the region. Additional thunderstorm activity is forecast for today through Wednesday afternoon. Air quality is expected to be at unhealthy levels over the next few days.

The public is reminded that ODF’s Northeast Oregon District has implemented additional public use restrictions intended to reduce human caused wildfires. The Regulated Use Closure prohibits open burning, non-industrial chainsaw use, mowing and cutting of dry grass, and welding and cutting of metal. Other activities included in the restriction can be found at http://bmidc.org/restrictions.shtml. Fire conditions are EXTREME throughout the region. Please use caution to help prevent forest fires.

To report a fire, contact:
Blue Mountain Interagency Dispatch (541) 963-7171
Or, call 9-1-1.

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