Governor Kate Brown Invokes the Emergency Conflagration Act in Response to the South Valley Fire
At 5:16 p.m. today, Governor Kate Brown approved a conflagration declaration for the South Valley Fire burning in Wasco County near the town of Dufur. Winds up to approximately 45 miles per hour moved the fire quickly, consuming homes and outbuildings. At the time of the declaration 100 homes were threatened, and the fire was moving quickly toward highway 197.
"I am sending the resources the firefighters need on the ground to ensure they can act swiftly to keep families and homes safe," Governor Brown said. "Early reports are that this may be human caused. Oregonians need to use the utmost caution and remain safe, vigilant, and ensure they are honoring all fire restrictions. People traveling through the area should use extreme caution because of the smoke in the air."
In accordance with ORS 476.510 - 476.610, Governor Brown determined that a threat to life, safety, and property exists due to the fire, and the threat exceeds the firefighting capabilities of local firefighting personnel and equipment. The Governor's declaration authorizes the Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal to mobilize resources to assist local resources battling the fire.
