Oregon declares wildfire emergency in response to several active wildfires

(The Center Square) – Oregon Governor Tina Kotek issued a state of emergency declaration this week due to the imminent wildfire threat.

The declaration will last through Oct. 1.

"Wildfires are active across Oregon and are growing at a concerning pace. Hot and windy conditions this weekend, including forecasted lightning in some areas, are threatening even larger wildfires," Kotek said in a press release from her office. "I am declaring a State of Emergency to access state resources for communities across Oregon as we respond to this year's escalating wildfire season.

"I urge all Oregonians to follow the instructions and evacuation levels issued by emergency officials, subscribe to emergency alerts on ORAlert.gov, have an evacuation plan, prepare a go-kit, and stay aware of changing conditions," she added.

Kotek determined that Oregon is at severe risk of wildfires due to the hot temperatures.

The declaration comes as several wildfires blaze in the state. Some examples include the Cow Valley Fire, Falls Fire, Salt Creek Fire, and Larch Creek Fire.

The declaration from Kotek's office directs the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) to support access to personnel and equipment from all state agencies to combat this fire emergency at the request of the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF), the Oregon Department of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM), and any local governments that need help mitigating the impact of wildfires.

The declaration also lets the Oregon National Guard deploy in response to wildfires if needed.

Kotek's office also urges people who feel they have been the victims of price gouging during the fire emergency to report violations to the Oregon Department of Justice Consumer Protection Services.

Additionally, the Oregon State Fire Marshal put together two task forces from Washington this past weekend to increase its firefighting capacity.

The task forces come from Snohomish, Thurston, and Grays Harbor counties. They feature 29 firefighters, eight engines, and two water tenders and are combatting the Falls Fire in Harney County.

"We are bringing in additional support from the Washington fire service for the Falls Fire, the severe drawdown of Oregon resources, and the anticipated weather conditions," Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said in a press release from the department. "Our strong relationship with the Washington fire service is invaluable, especially during their responses to Oregon in 2017 and 2020. We have a robust response system that transcends borders and supports our mutual missions. I can't thank the Washington fire service enough for their quick and reliable response to Oregon's needs."