Redmond, Ore. – Fire crews are responding to more than 20 new lightning starts across Central Oregon as a result of a weather system that moved through the area yesterday evening.
The largest start on federally-managed ground is the Whychus fire, located about 8 miles northeast of Sisters on Deschutes National Forest. The fire is mapped at 34.5 acres, burning in brush and timber fuels near the intersection of Forest Roads 63 and 6360.
Crews worked diligently throughout the night and have completely surrounded the fire with both hand and dozer line. Firefighters remain on scene today to secure the perimeter and begin mopping up.
Federal crews are also assisting with a new start on private ground just south of Antelope. The fire is estimated at 10,000 acres, burning in grassy fuels about 10 miles southwest of Clarno.
Crews are also assisting under a mutual aid agreement with a new wildfire just east of Bend near the city airport. That fire was estimated at 18 acres this morning.
Fire danger throughout Central Oregon remains EXTREME due to very dry fuel conditions and extremely high temperatures. Weather predictions today call for red flag conditions to include continued high temperatures and strong winds associated with thunderstorms.
New fire restrictions are in effect today for all Forest Service and BLM lands across Central Oregon, to include a complete campfire ban and an Industrial Fire Precaution Level IV.
For continued fire information, follow http://centralorfireinfo.
