Single Publication

Current SitUation

The Pyramid, Slate and Ore fires are not yet fully contained and continue to have potential for growth, as intense heat has been detected by infrared technology. 

Ore Fire

Blue River, 2,507 Acres, 21% Contained, 168 Total Personnel, Under Investigation

Even with increased moisture and lower temperatures over the past few days, heavy dead and down fuels contributed to active fire behavior yesterday.  Crews continued monitoring and patrolling the fire through the night. Today, crews on the western flank will continue to hold and patrol the 1509 Road and evaluate and assess opportunities for firing planned indirect lines.  Crews to the north will also evaluate opportunities for future firing operations.  Crews and heavy equipment across the Ore Fire continue to prepare indirect fire lines and secure threats to the line by removing trees, snags and other fuels, and suppressing any flare-ups or hot spots. 

Weather & FIre Behavior

Milder conditions, and increased marine influence, are expected to continue through the weekend. Predicted maximum temperature today is 84 to 88 °F in the valleys and 78 to 82 °F on the ridgetops. Predicted minimum relative humidity is 38 to 44 percent in the valleys and 46 to 52 percent on the ridgetops. There is a very slight chance of isolated thunder in the evening. Even as weather beings to moderate, fire behavior will continue to be active. Higher winds will generate improved smoke transport, however clear skies and sun on fuels may result in an increase in fire behavior. Smoke and air quality conditions are available on: AirNow.gov 

Evacuations, Closures & Fire Restrictions

On July 17th, the Linn County Sheriff’s Office, in coordination with the Willamette National Forest, issued a Level 3: Go Now Evacuation Alert for the closure area affected. Please refer to the Linn County Fire Map https://tinyurl.com/LinnCoFireMap for full details of the issued evacuation area (which will appear in red). To sign up for evacuation alerts, visit https://www.linnsheriff.org/. 

Area, road, trail, and recreation site closures are in effect in the Willamette National Forest. 

Specific information is posted at https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/willamette/alerts-notices/?aid=61574. 

Fire restrictions are in effect for Willamette National Forest. Read the complete restrictions at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/willamette/alerts-notices/?aid=81487. 

Wildfires are a no-fly zone for unauthorized aircraft, including drones. If you fly, we can’t. For more information, visit http://knowbeforeyoufly.org.