Single Publication

Message: A red flag warning has been issued starting on 11pm Wednesday September 4 through Thursday September 5 at 11pm. An excessive heat warning has also been issued beginning today, September 5 through Friday September 6 at 10pm. Please check the National Weather Service for more information.

Suppression Objectives: The Ore Fire and the Pyramid Fire remain under a full suppression strategy to protect values at risk, including the Middle Santiam Wilderness, HJ Andrews Experimental Forest, and private timberlands. Firefighters are building direct fire line where possible, and strategic indirect contingency line as needed. 

Current Situation: An increase in smoke will be seen as high pressure builds over the area. Crews continue to make progress on mopping up fire lines while patrolling for heat along containment lines. As temperatures increase and humidities decrease, fire personnel will monitor fire weather conditions and adjust tactics appropriately.  

Ore Fire: 7 miles Northeast of Blue River, 3,303 acres, 42% contained, 579 total personnel, human caused.  Firefighters continue increasing mop up depth in containment lines. Work progresses in the Waterfall and Ore drainages to cleanup unburned vegetation near the 1509 road. Night operations will continue  focusing on patrolling, securing, and mopping up as conditions safely allow. Contingency divisions are still masticating, chipping, and removing vegetation along identified lines. 

Pyramid Fire: East of Middle Santiam Wilderness, 1,312 Acres, 98% contained, 224 total personnel, lightning caused. Fuels reduction work will continue as firefighters remove fuels from the fire line and construct contingency lines that will prevent the possible spread as temperatures and fire behavior increase beginning today moving into the weekend.

Safety: Highways, county roads, and forest roads will see heavy vehicular traffic from the Pyramid and Ore fires. These will include heavy equipment and large trucks from fire crews. The public is reminded to remain vigilant while driving the Highway 126 corridor and spur roads. Please stay alert, reduce your speed, and be safe. 

Closures & Fire Restrictions:  Willamette National Forest closures for all fires can be found here: Willamette National Forest - Alerts & Closures (usda.gov)  Specific closure maps for the Pyramid Fire can be found here. Specific closure maps for the Ore Fire can be found here.

Everyone is reminded to stay out of all fire closures for firefighter and general safety. Violations of these prohibitions are punishable by a fine of up to $5,000. All campfires, charcoal fires, pellet fires, or any other open fires are prohibited, including in developed campgrounds and wilderness areas. Pressurized liquid or gas stoves, lanterns, and heaters that can be switched on and off are allowed. Please see Forest Order 06-18-00-24-27 for additional information.