FIRE ALERT: Ochoco National Forest Emergency Closures Due to Wildfires

PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Ochoco National Forest expanded emergency area closures yesterday at 5:00 p.m. due to critical fire activity on National Forest Lands.

These closures affect all National Forest System lands, roads and trails within the new boundaries, aiming to protect the public and provide a safe environment for firefighters.

The expanded closures are necessary as fire behavior is extreme, with embers from the fires capable of igniting new blazes miles away from the main fire. Life safety remains the number one priority and these measures protect both the public and firefighting personnel working in the area.

The expanded closure on the west side of the Ochoco National Forest now encompasses all lands, roads and trails to the west of Forest Service Road (FSR) 22. This area extends north to the forest boundary on FSR 2630, building upon an existing closure.

On the east side, the closure impacts areas starting from the southern forest boundary on the east side of FSR 4240. It then stretches north along FSR 3010 to the northern forest boundary on FSR 22. Highway 26 is not affected by this closure.

These emergency fire area closures are temporary and will remain in effect until conditions improve enough for a safe reopening. Further information, including a detailed map and the official forest closure order, is forthcoming. Authorities urge the public to use extreme caution and stay informed on current forest closures and evacuation levels.