Crews work to respond to 15 new wildfires
Roseburg, Ore. – Thunderstorms, producing dry lightning, moved through the area yesterday igniting multiple wildfires across the Umpqua. New wildfires have been reported on the Tiller (1 wildfire) and Diamond Lake (14 wildfires) districts. The largest wildfire on the forest has been reported at 15+ acres on the Diamond Lake district.
Red flag warnings for additional scattered thunderstorms are in effect through this evening. Thunderstorms coupled with high temperatures and dry fuels may lead to extreme fire behavior and new starts. The Umpqua anticipates having additional wildfire reports and will be responding accordingly.
Traffic Advisories: Due to new gravel, smoke, and firefighting vehicle traffic on Highway 138 we ask that the public use extreme caution while traveling. Keep in mind public and firefighter safety and please drive slowly.
UAS/Drones: With numerous wildfire aviation resources there are TFR’s (Temporary Flight Restrictions) in place. It is imperative to remember if drones fly we cannot utilize our firefighting aviation resources. “Flying a drone near aerial firefighting aircraft doesn’t just pose a hazard to the pilots,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx. “When aircraft are grounded because an unmanned aircraft is in the vicinity, lives are put at greater risk.” Even if there is no TFR, operating a UAS could still pose a hazard to firefighting aircraft and would violate Federal Aviation Regulations.
Public use restrictions remain in effect. Current Public Use and Wilderness Restrictions can be found at: http://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/umpqua/alerts-notices
If you see local news happen, call the Horizon Broadcasting Group News Tip Hotline at 541-323-NEWS, or email us.
