9/21/2017 Wildland Fire Minute

This week has seen a significant change in the dominant weather pattern. The majority of area fires have seen a significant amount of rain and snow over the past two days. Locations such as Eagle Creek Fire has seen in excess of 6” of precipitation, while fires such the Whitewater complex have received several inches of accumulating snow fall. Beginning this weekend, a warm and drying trend typical of local autumn conditions is forecast to impact the region through next week. With this weather change, the Pacific Northwest has decreased from Preparedness Level 5 – the highest -- to Preparedness Level 4. The ten day forecast will continue to decrease to level 3. Fires across the region are seeing a reduction in fire fighter numbers, and operations are switching from suppression to repair. On a number of fires, such as Eagle Creek, in Oregon, Burned Area Response Teams are mobilizing to stabilize watersheds, erosion prone areas, and other critical resources damaged by the fires. Many evacuation and closure orders and being rescinded. In order for everyone to have a safe and enjoyable time, it’s important to “Know Before You Go” – know what closures are in place, and what fires are burning in the area you want to visit. Some of your favorite hiking spots may not be available for some time. To learn more about the latest wildland fire conditions in the Pacific Northwest head on over to: http://gacc.nifc.gov/nwcc/ Video by Michael Campbell, BLM -- Graphics by Matt Christenson, BLM – Featuring Chris Ziegler, National Park Service. Additional video provided by Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/