If the smoke in the Willamette Valley or the shocking images from Texas haven’t been warning enough, it is wildfire season. With this week expected to be the warmest of the year with dry conditions and significant winds, the National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning across much of the Eastern Willamette Valley (including parts of Multnomah, Clackamas, Marion, Linn, and Lane counties). This means a small spark could easily lead to a wildfire. In addition, there are several high profile fires already active in Oregon that are likely to spread.

The Oregon Red Cross has a variety of helpful tips available for dealing with wildfires:

A list of supplies to take with you if you need to evacuate

How to prepare for a wildfire

What you should do when there are reports of wildfires in your area

Tips for dealing with the aftermath of a wildfire

If you want to learn more, here are additional helpful resources:
–National Weather Service Portland Forecast Office (with Red Flag map)
–Oregon Department of Forestry Industrial Precaution Levels
–Fire Tips from the Oregon Red Cross
–Portland Fire & Rescue: Emergency Preparedness

Photo: KGW