The National Weather Service out of Pendleton has issued an elevated fire warning again for this Friday and Saturday (September 9 - 10). Winds are predicted at 15 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph and low relative humidity.
UEC monitors the impact of weather on our system on a daily basis. We urge everyone to use caution when fire danger is elevated. Dry conditions with gusty winds could cause enhanced fire weather behavior and allow existing fires to more easily spread.
According to the National Weather Service website, a majority of Oregon state is under some form of weather warning this weekend, with the southern and western parts seeing the most significant activity. This elevated threat level for fire danger has caused utilities in Benton, Lane, Linn, Douglas, Lincoln, Tillamook, Marion and Polk counties to prepare for possible Public Safety Power Shutoff events beginning Friday, Sept. 9. For information on those areas visit www.KPTV.com.
While UEC's service territory is not expected to see such severe weather, we do urge caution when travelling outdoors as late summer dry conditions can easily spark a wildfire. Together we can reduce the impact of wildfire on our community and cooperative.
For information about wildfire safety, tips to protect your home and property, as well as emergency kit checklists visit our Safety and Outages page.