Wednesday, September 16, 2020

Will it Rain?

This is a map of the Holiday Farm Fire east of Eugene / Springfield with the three levels of evacuation in different colors.  It is immense. As of the 14th it was over 166,000 acres and only 6% contained.  We are fortunate that the winds are no longer strong or from the east. That said it will be weeks before this fire is under control.  We have some rain forecast for Thursday and Friday - here's hoping!

The smoke has lessened a bit and the air quality has gone from an 'off the charts' hazardous reading of  over 500, to today's 'very unhealthy' 293. We can now see the sun - kind of!

Weirdly there is now a mix of fog and smoke. The rise in humidity is extremely helpful in fighting this, and other fires throughout the west coast. 

We can now see a bit further - for several days I could not see the first row of trees, much less the taller trees in the background.

It has stopped 'raining' ash so I decided to clean one of the chair that had been back under the eves.


The fine particulate ash and smoke is difficult to battle. Being outside requires an N95 mask to be safe, and it is not recommended to sweep the ash.

This is a photo of the Holiday Farm Fire my uncle shared a few days ago.  They went from a Level One "Get Ready" to a Level Two "Be Prepared to evacuate", and are now back to a Level One. I am so appreciative of everyone who has taken the time to comment on the Oregon/Washington/California fires. Your support is very meaningful.   

4 comments:

MaryO said...

Continued prayers Beth. So tragic. We woke up to very smoky skies. I'm

Robin in Virginia said...

Beth, thank you for sharing the pictures and narrative/information. Continuing to pray for your area and all who are affected.

Barb said...

Looking at the situation where you are, i feel we have been lucky. We are at 200 and I have been complaining about that. My prayers are with you and your family and all of the people directly impacted by these horrible fires!!

Laura said...

Keeping you in my thoughts/prayers....