August 11, 2022 3:50 a.m.

Officials with the U.S. Forest Service have issued a fire weather and preparedness update.

Another warming trend will start on Sunday, continuing through the middle of next week. It is forecast to bring very hot temperatures back into the area. The possibility of thunderstorms is predicted for next Wednesday.

The north zone, which includes the Diamond Lake, North Umpqua and Cottage Grove Ranger districts is well staffed to respond to any new fire starts with a task force leader, five engines, two 20-person hand crews, one water tender and two fallers. Crews in that region will patrol for any new fire starts within the Temporary Flight Restriction for the Windigo Fire for a coordinated response with Northwest Incident Management Team 6.

The south zone can respond to any new fire starts with a Type 3 Incident Commander, and two task force leaders, six engines, three 20-person hand crews, two dozers and two lookouts. Fire personnel will patrol along the lower 28 corridor and the Wildcat, Drew and Jackson areas and check for illegal campfires.

Public Use Restrictions Level 1 is in effect. It allows campfires in Forest Service constructed fire rings and fireplaces in designated areas only. Industrial Fire Precaution Level continues at IFPL2.

For more information on the Umpqua National Forest, go to: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/umpqua/alerts-notices/?aid=74831