Much of Oregon 'red flag eligible' amid record-breaking heat wave, meteorologist says
PORTLAND, Ore. (KATU) — After several days of record-breaking high temperatures across Oregon, including the Portland-metro area, officials are warning that peak fire season could be fast approaching.
"As of today, elevations below, say, around 2,000 feet or so are what we call 'red flag eligible,' which means that the fuels are there," said David Bishop, meteorologist with the National Weather Service office in Portland.
As of Monday evening, 24 wildfires were burning across Oregon that have prompted evacuation notices affecting more than 600 people, according to the Oregon Department of Emergency Management.
In Multnomah County, health officials are investigating multiple deaths believed to be heat-related.
MORE: Four possible heat-related deaths reported over the holiday weekend, officials say
Peak fire season typically starts between late July and mid-August, Bishop said; however, hot temperatures are far from the only indicator. Dry grass, trees and other flora, as well as high winds, are key symptoms of a dangerous fire season.
"If you think back to the heat dome a few years ago, that actually happened in June," said Ron Graham, a deputy chief of fire operations at the Oregon Department of Forestry. "This is not exceptionally early. However, we really are entering into our busiest times of fire season."
