Oregon governor declares state of emergency due to wildfires

SALEM, Ore. (AP) — Oregon Gov. Kate Brown on Wednesday declared a state of emergency because of what she called the imminent threat of wildfire across state.

Much of the state is now in extreme fire danger, and red flag warnings have been issued for hot, dry, windy conditions and dry thunderstorms, she said in a news release.

“The wildfire season has escalated in Oregon this summer, and fire crews are working in extreme temperatures to keep homes and resources safe during this pandemic,” Brown said. “I’m committed to making state resources available to ensure crews have the resources they need on the ground and across the state. I urge the public to use extreme caution and be mindful of fire restrictions to protect the beauty and bounty of our state.”

Furthermore, Oregon continues to respond to the COVID-19 outbreak, which adds complexity to wildland firefighting and operations, she said.

The governor's declaration authorizes the Oregon Department of Forestry and the Oregon Office of the State Fire Marshal, in coordination with the Oregon Office of Emergency Management, to receive help from other state agencies.

The Oregon National Guard also will deploy firefighting resources as needed throughout the remainder of the fire season, Brown said. The Oregon Health Authority will continue to provide guidance and help with slowing the spread of COVID-19 at fire camps, emergency shelters, and evacuation centers.

The National Interagency Fire Center said Wednesday that 17 large wildfires are currently burning in Oregon and Washington. Washington Gov. Jay Inslee on Wednesday declared a similar state of emergency.

A fire that started in the Columbia River Gorge last week in the community of Mosier burned dozens of structures before firefighters had it under control enough to reduce the number of crews sent there.