September 5, 2024 3:30 a.m.

Due to dry vegetation, hot conditions, and numerous active fires in the region, the fire danger level on lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry in Jackson and Josephine counties will increase to Extreme on Friday.

A release from the Oregon Department of Forestry said these regulations impact 1.8 million acres of state, private, county, city and Bureau of Land Management lands protected by ODF’s Southwest Oregon District. Public Information Officer Natalie Weber said the Industrial Fire Precaution Level will remain at IFPL2.

Weber said fire danger decreased to high in Jackson and Josephine counties following significant rainfall in late August. Due to increased temperatures, dry vegetation and the potential for east winds and thunderstorms, fire danger is once again increasing to extreme on the ODF Southwest Oregon District.

For the public, these fire restrictions are now in effect:

*The use of power saws is prohibited, excluding electric chainsaws.

*The cutting, grinding and welding of metal is prohibited.

*The mowing of dry or dead grass is prohibited, including all equipment that uses gas, electric or battery power.

*The operation of any other spark-emitting internal combustion engine not specifically mentioned is prohibited.

A number of fire prevention regulations are currently in effect and will remain in effect until the fire danger level drops significantly.

For complete information on fire season regulations, go to: www.swofire.com