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Bedrock Fire update for July 28, 2023
Bedrock Fire
Publication Type: News 07/28/2023
Bedrock Fire update for Friday, July 28, 2023
Lowell, Ore. – The Bedrock Fire continued to burn actively yesterday after the inversion lifted. Much of the growth was to the north in the Hehe Creek drainage and to the south near Andy Creek. Similar growth is expected today. Fire progression is largely driven by topography, with flames spreading uphill within steep drainages. Unusually dry fuels are contributing to the fire’s growth.
There has been no measurable precipitation in the Bedrock Fire vicinity since mid-May. Unusually hot weather has baked the moisture out of vegetation. As a result, the moisture content in both green vegetation and dead wood is much lower than normal for this time of year, closer to the levels usually found in late August.
These dry fuels ignite easily, burn intensely, and require a lot of water and effort to extinguish. In addition, embers carried by the wind have greater potential to land on fuels dry enough to ignite, creating spot fires. These spot fires may be as far as one mile ahead of the main fire, creating extra hazards for fire personnel working in the vicinity, which increases difficulty of providing containment.
Masticators are operating along roads and old fire lines cutting vegetation and creating fuel breaks. Fire crews are working to create fire lines in remote areas and on ground too steep for the heavy equipment
WEATHER: Friday’s temperatures are expected to reach the upper 70s, with relative humidity dropping to 35 percent. Weather conditions should be similar this weekend, with winds from the northwest and no chance of rain.
SAFETY: Willamette National Forest has issued a Forest Closure Order for the area around the Bedrock Fire. Please stay out of the closure area for your safety and the safety of fire personnel. Unmanned aerial systems (AES or drones) are not permitted within the Temporary Flight Restriction.
SMOKE: Smoke from the Bedrock Fire is spreading into central Oregon, causing some areas to experience “unhealthy” conditions. Individuals with respiratory issues may find themselves affected by the smoke. Smoke levels can change rapidly depending on weather.