PORTLAND, Oregon – Fire experts say fires in Washington and Oregon are likely to continue until the region receives significant rainfall in the fall.

Jacque Buchanan, regional forester for the Forest Service’s Pacific Northwest region, explains, “Our planners are taking a realistic look at current wildfires, expected new fires, and the resources we have available to protect lives and property while improving our ability to respond to wildfires in high-risk areas.”

Despite the efforts of the regional fire department, geographic challenges such as wood-dominated forests, fires in steep, remote areas, and rolling logs and rocks pose a significant challenge.

In addition, weather factors such as the widespread lightning expected in August pose an even greater threat to firefighters and the communities they protect.

Authorities continue to develop strategic plans to “integrate risk management, ecosystem resilience and community engagement during long-lasting fires,” including preventing fires from approaching critical areas such as power lines, water systems, communities, and cultural and natural resources.

“Communities will likely continue to deal with smoke and other impacts from these fires for extended periods of time. Large and long-lasting fires can vary in intensity and will continue to produce smoke as they move with winds and terrain until they are extinguished by heavy rain or snow,” said Kelly Kane, acting fire, fuels and aviation director for the Pacific Northwest and Alaska regions.

Experts recommend the following safety tips to protect against wildfires:

Create a defensible area around your home free of vegetation and debris. Prepare an emergency kit containing essential items such as water, food, medicine, important documents and personal items. Stay up to date with the latest fire safety information and evacuation instructions from local authorities. Install and maintain smoke detectors. Create an evacuation plan. Use air purifiers and keep windows closed to reduce indoor smoke exposure.

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