East Winds Causing Problems with Burning in Oregon, Nov. 26

A weather pattern of dry, east winds is causing more than cold clear nights. It is also causing fire officials concern and some burn piles to escape. Fires from escaped burns kept firefighters busy all weekend.  Coos Forest Protective Association (CFPA) is urging the public to check any burn piles from earlier in the year and to hold off on any new burning until the weather changes. Many of the fires came from piles burned earlier in the month that were fanned back to life by the winds. The South Coast received between two and five inches of rain two days before this wind event. In the last four days, many areas have seen 30 mph winds with humidity in single digits and that has gotten fuels ready to burn. Southern Curry County has been the hardest hit but the entire coast up through Douglas County is feeling the effects of the weather.  So far the fires have caused some extra work for landowners and firefighters along with some resource damage. “There will be plenty of chances to burn when the weather changes,” said CFPA Fire Prevention Specialist, John Flannigan. “This weather pattern can also trap smoke in the valleys and cause a nuisance.” If you are interested in burning, please call CFPA. A fire warden will come out and give advice on how to do it safely at no charge.