Malheur National Forest
431 Patterson Bridge Road
John Day, OR 97845
(541) 575-3000 |
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Fire Danger Ratings
The current Fire Danger Ratings for the Malheur as of October 6,
2008 are:
North End
Blue Mtn. & Prairie City RDs |
South End
Emigrant Creek RD |
Low
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Low
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LOW - Fires are not easily started. Fuels do not
ignite readily from small firebrands, although a more intense ignition
source, such as lightning, may start many fires in duff or punky wood.
Fires in open cured grassland may burn freely a few hours after rain,
but fires burning in forested areas spread slowly by creeping or smoldering,
and burn in irregular fingers. There is little danger of spotting. |
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MODERATE - Fires start easily and spread at a moderate
rate. Fires can start from most accidental causes, but with the exception
of lightning fires in some areas, the number of starts is generally
low. Fires in open-cured grassland will burn briskly and spread rapidly
on windy days. Woods fires spread slowly to moderately fast. The average
fire is of moderate intensity, although heavy concentrations of fuel
may burn hot. Short-distance spotting may occur, but is not persistent.
Fires are not likely to become serious, and control is relatively
easy. |
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HIGH - Fires start easily and spread at a fast
rate. All fine dead fuels ignite readily and fires start easily from
most causes. Unattended campfires are likely to escape. Fires spread
rapidly and short-distance spotting is common. High- intensity burning
may develop on slopes, or in concentrations of fine fuel. Fire may
become serious and difficult to control unless they are hit hard and
fast while small. |
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VERY HIGH - Fires start very easily and spread
at a very fast rate. Fires start easily from all causes, spread rapidly
and intensify quickly. Spot fires are a constant danger. Fires burning
in heavy fuels may quickly develop high-intensity characteristics,
such as long-distance spotting and fire whirlwinds. Direct attack
at the head of such fires is rarely possible after they have been
burning more than a few minutes. |
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EXTREME - The fire situation is explosive and can
result in extensive property damage. Fires under extreme conditions
start quickly, spread furiously, and burn intensely. All fires are
potentially serious. Development into high-intensity burning will
usually be faster and occur from smaller fires than in the very high
danger class. Direct attack is rarely possible, and may be dangerous,
except immediately after ignition. Fires burning in heavy slash or
in conifer stands may be unmanageable while the extreme burning condition
lasts. Under these conditions, the only effective and safe control
action is on the flanks until the weather changes or the fuel supply
lessens. |
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