September 14, 2020 9:35 a.m. 

Staff with the Oregon Department of Transportation suggest residents avoid driving unless absolutely necessary, due to the heavy smoke blanketing southwest Oregon.

Drivers should check conditions before they head out as a number of roads remain closed around the state. The update said drivers should slow down, turn on headlights, use fog lights, and keep plenty of space between them and other drivers nearby.

If visibility becomes too dangerous, pull off the road as soon as safely possible. Drivers should never stop in the travel lane and should not tailgate. The update said drivers should not use forest roads as a way to get around fire closure areas.