Monday, July 6, 2009

Black Butte Fire: more about Oregon wildfires

Wildfires are a natural disaster that occur every year in the state of Oregon, and are one of the more potent dangers we face. Between lightning strikes and man-made fires, according to the governor's office Oregon averages 1100 fires burning more than 12,000 acres every year. Not every Oregonian will face a wildfire, but every Oregonian that lives near forested lands needs to have an emergency plan for wildfire situations.


Earlier this week we wrote an unpublished article about the Black Butte II fire. This fire was started by lightning and is burning up near Three Sisters. While many fires like this one burn out in the wilderness of Oregon, these fires often threaten hikers, campers, rural houses and farms, and occasionally towns and cities.

As of last night, the Black Butte II fire is approximately 570 acres in size and 15% contained. The Black Butte Trail and the Metolious Windego Trail are closed. Indian Ford Campground has been evacuated and closed. Forest roads 11, 64, 1120, 1170, and 1430 are all closed for fire fighting efforts and safety.


Here is our original article:

Koin 6 news is carrying a story about firefighting efforts to combat a 300 acre fire near Three Sisters. Known as the Black Butte II fire, lightning is suspected as the starter for this fire. Here at OEM we expect many more fires like this one, and bigger, before the fire season ends.


Forest roads 11, 1120, and 1430 have been closed. You can see more about where wild fires are located on the NWCC Fire Map.

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