Rogue Valley Fire Danger Level Moves to “Extreme” Tuesday

Medford, Oregon- The fire danger level in Jackson and Josephine counties will increase to “extreme” early Tuesday as hot, windy weather and dry vegetation heighten wildfire risks, the Oregon Department of Forestry said.

The change, effective at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 12, applies to 1.8 million acres of state, private, county, city and Bureau of Land Management lands protected by ODF’s Southwest Oregon District. The Industrial Fire Precaution Level will remain at two.

Under the new restrictions, the use of power saws — except electric chainsaws — will be prohibited, as will cutting, grinding or welding metal, and mowing dry or dead grass. The mowing of green lawns will still be allowed. Other spark-emitting internal combustion engines not otherwise specified are also banned.

Current fire season regulations will continue, including bans on debris burning, open fires outside designated campgrounds, smoking outside vehicles or designated areas, fireworks within one-eighth of a mile of ODF-protected land, exploding targets, and tracer ammunition.

Motor vehicles are limited to improved roads free of flammable vegetation except for agricultural operations, and travelers must carry firefighting equipment such as a shovel and water or a fire extinguisher.

The National Weather Service in Medford has issued an Extreme Heat Warning for southern Oregon through 2 a.m. Wednesday, with triple-digit temperatures reaching up to 110 degrees. ODF said the combination of heat and dry conditions increases the risk of wildfire and urged residents to follow restrictions.

More details on current regulations are available at swofire.com.