The Pine Mountain Fire, sparked from a prescribed burn that crossed containment lines Thursday afternoon, has spread to an estimated 2,483 acres southeast of Bend. Firefighters on the Bend-Fort Rock Ranger District responded rapidly after declaring it a wildfire, allowing for immediate deployment of additional crews, engines, and aircraft. Smoke from the blaze is expected to be visible from Highway 20, Bend, and the Newberry Caldera. Despite favorable initial conditions, spot fires ignited outside the planned area, quickly turning the situation into an emergency response. Residents are urged to remain aware as firefighting efforts continue.  The Pine Mountain Fire is currently 15% contained. 

photo credit: Bend Fire

Investigators say oily rags improperly discarded in household trash caused Wednesday’s fire on NW Florida Avenue.

Flames from the historic 1925 mill house spread quickly from the exterior up into the attic, leaving the home unlivable.

The Red Cross is helping two adults and two dogs who were displaced. Fire officials are urging residents to dry oil-soaked rags outdoors, store them in a sealed metal container with water, and take them to the hazardous waste facility for safe disposal.

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek issued a proclamation declaring May Wildfire Awareness Month.  The lack of winter snow, warmer spring temperatures and less predicted rain will cause fire season to start early and last longer.  The Oregon State Fire Marshall's Office says homeowners should take steps now to protect their property, including making a five-foot barrier around their homes.

Prescribed burns are planned today (Wed) near Crescent, three miles west of Sisters… and the continuing burn of two-thousand acres on Pine Mountain, southeast of Bend.

photo credit: Bend Fire

Fire crews from Bend and Redmond responded quickly to a brush fire along Tumalo Road between Valeview and 92^nd Monday afternoon. Residents and passersby, armed with shovels and hoses, helped slow the flames until firefighters arrived. Thanks to their efforts and the work of four brush engines, the blaze was contained to less than an acre and around a quarter mile in length. While several fences suffered damage, no homes or vehicles were affected. Authorities believe the fire started when hot debris—possibly from a vehicle’s brakes or catalytic converter—ignited the dry roadside vegetation. Drivers are urged to check their vehicles and trailers to help prevent future fires.

photo credit: oregonhikers.org

As spring weather brings more people outside, authorities are urging residents to secure vehicles and keep valuables out of sight at recreation areas.