Utilities in the state are looking to new technology to fight an old problem: wildfires. Officials hope that by better predicting weather and risk patterns they can prevent and respond to the looming threat.
Since the devastation Oregon experienced in 2020, wildfire season summons a sense of urgency. Local fire marshals and forest experts say the area's particularly wet spring doesn't mean wildfire season isn't a concern.
Freier's presentation is part of Forensic Fire Investigation 101, a department program nationally recognized for its unique and innovative approach to solving the problem of youth-set fires.
In a news conference Tuesday, Gov. Lujan Grisham acknowledged she did not have hard figures — most recent estimates had put losses of homes at 366 — but added "given the nature of this fire ... I don't think it's an exaggeration."
Wildfire smoke can cause a number of health problems, ranging from eye and respiratory tract irritation to more serious concerns, such as reduced lung function, bronchitis, asthma attacks, heart failure and even neurological disorders.
Workers at the Santa Fe Animal Shelter and Humane Society scurried this week to make room for displaced pets. Other local organizations are taking donations of money, food, clothes and hygiene products for those in need.
The state’s too dry. Too warm. Wildfire risk is too high and the season lasts all year now. The danger of a camper accidentally sparking a devastating wildfire is too serious.
Gary Zell, a meteorologist for the Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon Fire, said in a briefing a "double-barrel system" is expected to bring four days of "critical fire weather," with low humidity, high temperatures and wind.
Pacific Power, which supplies power to 140,000 customers in central and eastern Washington, was one of several public power and utility companies to present wildfire plans to the Washington state Utilities and Transportation Commission.
The Pierce Conservation District in Washington is organizing a virtual event May 25 to help teach people how to make their homes safer from wildfires. Residents will learn what they can do now to mitigate the risks.
