September 11, 2020 11:00 a.m.

Due to unprecedented fire activity and extreme weather conditions this week in the Umpqua National Forest, the Forest Service has issued closure orders for the Diamond Lake and North Umpqua Ranger Districts.

A release said this restricts access to all but emergency personnel and people having a permit that specifically authorizes their presence in the closure areas.

Multiple fires combined with recent high winds has blocked roads and trails, making travel hazardous and increasing the potential for entrapment behind fast moving fires.

The release said the closure is to protect the public and fire fighters as active fire suppression work involves heavy equipment.

The Umpqua National Forest continues to be under Extreme Fire Danger with Public Use Restrictions at Level 2. Campfires are prohibited on all forest lands until further notice.

For more information, go to www.fs.usda.gov/umpqua.