Holiday Farm Fire morning update for Sept. 10, 2020

Springfield, Ore. – Firefighters celebrated some small successes yesterday on the Holiday Farm Fire.  Fire behavior and weather conditions were still treacherous and kept firefighters from accessing many areas of the fire.  In many cases, however, they were able to move fire around and away from structures.  They utilized small “burnout” operations to remove lighter fuels in the path of the main fire.  Burnouts enable a lower intensity burn that is more manageable and less destructive.  These tactics aren’t always feasible due to factors such as wind, terrain, and fuel conditions.  It is estimated that over 100 structures were saved yesterday.

The fire was mapped using an Infrared overflight last night at 144,695 acres.  Containment remains at 0%.  207 personnel are assigned to the incident.  Fire resources are spread thin across the western United States as large fires are burning in many states. Orders for critical needs have been placed.

Today, firefighters are expecting to see very unstable weather conditions across the fire area.  Winds are expected to shift and begin blowing out of the west today and relative humidity is expected to remain between 10-15%.  These weather conditions may contribute to another day of very active fire behavior.

Firefighters will be scouting areas for potential fire line location, providing structure protection, and continuing to assist with evacuations in areas under Level 3 evacuation orders.  Many communities remain under Level 1, 2, or 3 evacuation orders.  Current evacuation information can be found at:

Lane County: www.lanecounty.org/mckenziefire

Linn County: www.linnsheriff.org/fire_live_updates_sept_2020/

Residents are reminded that roads through the fire area are currently closed.  These closures are for the safety of residents, as well as firefighting personnel.  There are many hazards remaining, such as fire-weakened trees and falling rocks and other debris.  Firefighters will begin conducting structural inventories and damage assessments when it is safe to do so.

Firefighters have support and supplies readily available to them from the fire camp.  At this time, no donations can be accepted for the fire personnel.  People looking to donate are encouraged to look at local organizations such as American Red Cross or United Way, who will be providing assistance to displaced residents. These individuals and their well-being is the highest priority for those wishing to make donations. This is also true for people wishing to volunteer with the fire suppression effort. All firefighting resources are ordered through systems that confirm the necessary qualifications.

Air quality is expected to be very unhealthy throughout the region today. Individuals are encouraged to avoid prolonged exposure to the outdoors or heavy exertion while outdoors.