Gov. Tina Kotek declared a state of emergency Wednesday, citing the threat of Oregon’s wildfire season. This week alone wildfires have burned thousands of acres in the state, according to the Oregon Department of Forestry.
“Oregon is already experiencing a devastating wildfire season that will have lasting consequences,” Kotek said in a press release. “The summer is only getting hotter, drier and more dangerous – we have to be prepared for worsening conditions.”
Kotek has invoked the state’s Emergency Conflagration Act six times so far this year. The state of emergency will be effective until the end of the year and will allow communities to access additional state resources to help respond to wildfires.
Last week, Kotek declared drought emergencies in two Oregon counties – Baker and Lincoln. Weather forecasts predict ongoing warm and dry conditions in the state, creating the ideal environment for wildfires to spark.
“All Oregonians should follow local instructions and evacuation levels issued by emergency officials, subscribe to emergency alerts on ORAlert.gov, have an evacuation plan, prepare a go-kit and stay aware of changing conditions,” Kotek said.
—Kimberly Cortez covers breaking news, public safety and more for The Oregonian/OregonLive. She can be reached at kcortez@oregonian.com
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