8/18/16 Withers Fire Update

Withers Fire Update

Withers Fire: The fire is burning near the community of Paisley, approximately 1 mile north off Oregon State Highway 31.  The fire was one of four started yesterday afternoon.

A local Type 3 incident management team is on the fire this morning.  A Type 2 incident management team has been ordered and is expected within the next 24 hours.

The fire is burning in fine flashy fuels and in a juniper fuel treatment project area.  There is a fairly rapid rate of spread due to gusty winds, high temperatures and low relative humidity.

The cause is under investigation.

Smoke from the fire will be visible today throughout the region and there may be smoke impacts to communities including Paisley and Summer Lake.  Individuals with smoke sensitivity, including the elderly and young children may want to stay indoors or leave the area if a smoke inversion settles into Paisley or Summer Lake. 

While there are no road closures, there is a significant increase in fire traffic.  Minimizing travel in the area if possible will help both firefighter and public safety.  There is also a likelihood of increased air traffic in the area as part of firefighting efforts.  A temporary flight restriction is in place over the fire area.

Fire danger remains high and the public should be aware of their surroundings and prepared for changing conditions.

Residents and area visitors are asked to be vigilant with anything with a flame or spark.  Also, respect current Public Use and Fire Restrictions on federal and state lands in Lake and Klamath counties.  It only takes one coal or ember to spark a wildfire!

Expected Fire Behavior: Conditions continue to be hot and dry with relatively low fuel moistures.  Increased fire activity is likely as temperatures increase.

Weather: High temperatures will be in the 90s with low humidity

Evacuation Information: There is a Level 3 Evacuation for campgrounds along the Chewaucan River and any residences along the River Road – anyone in this area needs to leave immediately.  There is a Level 2 Evacuation for seven residences along Mill Street – individuals should be closely monitoring conditions and prepared to evacuate quickly.  The town of Paisley remains under a Level 1 Evacuation – residents should be monitoring conditions and begin making preparations in case an evacuation becomes necessary.

FIRE PERIMETER MAP