New fast-growing fire near Terwillinger Hot Springs

Firefighting resources, including engines and aircraft, from the U.S. Forest Service and Oregon Department of Forestry responded Sunday to a new fire reported in the Cougar Reservoir area near Terwilliger Hot Springs on the McKenzie River Ranger District of the Willamette National Forest.

The Terwilliger Fire was estimated to be around 110 acres by late Sunday and was located about four miles south of state Highway 126 on the Aufderheide Scenic Highway, Forest Service Road 19.

Visitors were advised to avoid the area, as conditions are exceptionally dry, causing the fire to grow quickly.

“Forest conditions are very receptive to fire starts and growth right now,” District Ranger Darren Cross said. “As a reminder, all campfires outside designated campgrounds within the Willamette National Forest are banned. Please remain vigilant with fire prevention efforts.”

Officials said smoke from the fire could be visible from the communities of McKenzie Bridge, Rainbow and portions of Highway 126.

They said more information would be available soon

For more information and fire updates call the McKenzie River Ranger District at 541-822-3381 or visit www.fs.usda.gov/willamette/ and follow on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/willamettenf/, and Twitter, https://twitter.com/willametteNF .