Deschutes National Forest reopens Akawa Butte Fire area to public

Bend, ORE. (KTVZ) --- The Deschutes National Forest lifted the temporary emergency closure for the Akawa Butte Fire area today, reopening the land to the public while urging visitors to exercise caution.

Forest Service officials warned that burned landscapes contain safety hazards that did not exist prior to the fire or were worsened by its impact. These hazardous conditions may persist for several years following a wildfire.

Visitors entering the burned area are advised to stay situationally aware and watch for overhead, ground and environmental hazards. Officials recommend looking up for snags, exposed rocks and burned upslope areas that could fall, noting that wind and rain events increase the risk of tree falls.

Travelers should also inspect the ground for rock debris, trail and road edge erosion and ash pits formed by burned tree stumps or root pockets. Weather conditions should be checked prior to travel, particularly at higher elevations, as rain, wind, ice and snow heighten the risk of rock falls and slides. Areas located below severely burned terrain face an elevated risk of flash floods and landslides.

The announcement was issued by Forest Service Public Affairs Officer Kaitlyn Webb. Members of the public seeking more information or with questions can contact the Sisters Ranger District at (541) 549-7700.