September 7, 2020 12:45 p.m.

With the Red Flag Warning issued by the National Weather Service for a large part of western Oregon, staff with the Umpqua National Forest said a “historic significant east wind event” is possible between Monday evening and Wednesday morning.

Mark Turney of the Forest Service said critically low humidity and strong gusty winds are forecast from the coast to the Cascade Mountains. He said there will be little overnight recovery.

Fire Staff Officer Riva Duncan said “This wind event will lead to very dangerous conditions”. She said the Forest Service is asking people living within and around the national forest and BLM lands to exercise caution with charcoal grills, equipment, smoking and anything else that could cause a spark. She “…it will only take one tiny spark to create a dangerous wildfire”.

Turney said the nation is at National Preparedness Level 5, which is the highest level. Fire activity is widespread across the western U.S. and numerous resources are already committed. The potential for emerging significant wildland fires is high and is expected to remain high in multiple geographic areas. Duncan said strong gusty winds can limit the use of helicopters and other aircraft. Duncan said if a wildfire starts, residents and recreationists should heed any evacuation precautions or orders.

The forest remains at an Extreme fire danger rating. For more information, go to www.fs.usda/gov/umpqua.