Wildfire

We learn more about how Ashland is preparing for wildfire season.

Wildfires can break out at a moment’s notice and spread quickly into communities, causing significant damage and even death.

Many Central Oregon cities started fire restrictions this week as the forecast for much of the state predicts dry, warm weather and little precipitation ahead.

But there was a glimmer of hope: Federal firefighting managers said their workforce is about where it needs to be for the fire season ahead, despite the Trump administration’s efforts.

In fire-prone Southern Oregon, residents of the Green Springs joined forces to carry out a 12-acre prescribed burn — lighting controlled fire to reduce wildfire risk and restore forest health. The effort reflects a growing movement to use“good fire” to reshape landscapes and build community resilience.

The Bureau of Land Management has announced new fire restrictions on its public lands across Oregon and Washington.

Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek warns that gaps in federal support could complicate Oregon’s wildfire response during what’s expected to be a severe summer.

Even if Democrats agree on such a move, a vote to suspend the kicker would require two Republican votes in the 30-member Senate and four in the 60-member House.

The annual range of deaths was 130 to 5,100, the study showed, with the highest in states such as Oregon and California.

The outlook for the 2025 wildfire season in Oregon and Washington looks a lot like 2024, with high temperatures and limited precipitation likely.