For people living in the vicinity of the Holiday Farm Fire, the past week has been filled with fear and anxiety as evacuation orders quickly ramped up or changed. And at one point there were concerns the fast-moving blaze could reach Springfield or even Eugene.
Public information officer Brian Richardson says evacuation orders remain in effect for those in the path of the fire.
“If it’s not safe, they’re not in their home. At this point though, the fire activity has moderated, so we think we’ve got a good handle on that right now. Obviously we don’t know what’s coming in the future. But we think we’re in a good spot as far as significant population areas.”
Everyone needs to remain vigilant though as fire season is far from over. Containment of the Holiday Farm Fire is not expected until late fall.
Another issue people have been dealing with over the past week is the unprecedented wildfire smoke that has filled the skies and crept inside our homes and businesses. The thick smoke blanketing the area has made it difficult for crews battling the Holiday Farm Fire. Typically, aircraft would be dropping water and retardant to slow the fire’s spread.
Public Information Officer Brian Richardson says the more favorable weather conditions expected over the next few days should make it safe to take to the skies.
”One of the problems that we’re really having is this visibility, so we can’t get aircraft up to be able to assist with the firefighting effort. So once this lid does clear, does move off, then we’re hoping to have that air support ready.”
The pilots and aircraft are on standby. Otherwise, Richardson says they have all the resources they need right now. That’s thanks in part to firefighters who have come in from other states and the donations that have poured in from the community.
