Contact: Rod Nichols
503-508-0574, rod.l.nichols@oregon.gov
Firefighters continue to battle the 70-acre Niagara Fire
in the Santiam Unit of Oregon Department of Forestry’s North Cascade District.
Reported July 4 about noon, the fire is burning near Highway 22 in the vicinity
of the Big Cliff Dam. ODF is being assisted by the U.S. Forest Service as well
as local rural fire departments.
Approx. 100 personnel are fighting the fire today. ODF has
increased the air attack and will have five helicopters dropping water today,
along with large and small air tankers delivering fire retardant. Several private
contract hand crews are on scene, for a total of 100 personnel fighting the
fire.
The Niagara Fire is uncontained at present. The fire is
burning on steep terrain in heavy timber. Hot, dry conditions persist in the
area, which will challenge firefighters as they work to contain the blaze.
Cause is under investigation.
Highway 22 remains open. Traffic is expected to be heavy
today, with travelers returning from the Fourth of July holiday weekend, and
firefighting equipment also moving along the major travel route.
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