As temperatures heat up again, Central Oregon officials say recent rain did little to ease wildfire danger

UPDATE: Adding video

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Recent rain showers across Central Oregon have provided short-term relief, but fuels remain dry and the risk of wildfire is high as hotter temperatures return, officials said Wednesday.

Here's their update on our fire danger situation:

Hot summer temperatures quickly dry out grasses, brush, and timber, leaving conditions primed for fire.

Central Oregon public lands remain under Stage 1 Public Use Fire Restrictions, which prohibit open fires, including wood stoves and charcoal briquettes, except within designated, developed campgrounds. Under Stage 1 restrictions, the use of internal combustion engines, including chainsaws, is prohibited between 1 p.m. and 8 p.m.

For a full list of designated campgrounds where campfires are permitted and details on fire restrictions, visit centraloregonfire.org/fire-restrictions.   

In addition, the Oregon Department of Forestry's Central Oregon Forest Protection District is currently under Regulated Closure. These restrictions apply to private, state, and county forestlands protected by ODF and include limits on fires, smoking, and equipment use. For more information, visit ODF’s website or contact a local ODF office for the latest information on restrictions.

Firefighters continue to respond quickly to new starts. With peak fire season underway, any spark has the potential to grow rapidly and threaten communities, firefighters, and natural resources.

The public plays a critical role in reducing wildfire risk. Please do your part: know and follow fire restrictions, never leave a campfire unattended, and call 9-1-1 immediately if you see smoke.

Visit the official source for wildfire information in Central Oregon at centraloregonfire.org for wildfire updates or follow fire information on X/Twitter @CentralORfire. Call 9-1-1 to report a wildfire. For smoke and air quality information visit fire.airnow.gov.