Brush fires occurred in several areas throughout the listening area yesterday with dry conditions and high winds contributing to the attempts to battle the fires. A brush fire in Shannon County along Hwy 99 created such heavy smoke and unsafe conditions, about an 8 mile stretch of 99 was mostly closed to traffic 4 miles south of Birch Tree. Fire on both sides of the highway created even more danger as the blaze was fought. It was about 7:30 last night before Hwy 99 was given the all clear for motorists again.
Brush fires in areas of Oregon County also was the cause for Thayer Fire Chief Mark Arnold to call out High Fire Danger to area residents. As the wind continues today, High Fire Danger Alerts will remain in effect. Please do not burn and do not throw cigarette butts out your vehicle window.