The southern Oregon Bootleg wildfire that broke out in the early weeks of July is proving immensely difficult to control. This fire now the current largest forest fire in the US and covers a little over 430,000 acres which is approximately just the size of New York City. First reported in Winema National Forest of the Town of Sprague River, the fire is producing smoke at a peerless rate as well as reducing the quality of air which in turn has led to road closures in some areas and now it is proving unlikely that the situation will get better in coming weeks and months.
The source of the fire is still very much unknown as authorities seek to control the fire. The National Fire Center Website as of last Sunday evening claims to have contained the fire up to 25 percent but also admits that gusty winds and severe drought are things that have made it difficult for the fire-fighting crew to make better headway in controlling the forest blaze.
Authorities have implied that if fire-fighting crews do not make headway soon, the fire may be heading inland towards Lake County. Lake County, has activated its emergency alert system to notify residents of the affected areas to get set for evacuation at a one-time notice. The authorities have indicated that there could be a significant danger ahead; residents are being encouraged to voluntarily relocate to a shelter or move in with friends and family members that reside outside the affected area. They have also warned that residents should gather all they can now but at their own risk.
Drivers should be prepared for an increase in local traffic due to fire fighting efforts and the authorities urging for early evacuations.
Source: freightwaves
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