Good morning, this is your Bend Local Frequency for Thursday, July 17.
Bend is waking up today to hazy skies and the persistent scent of wildfire smoke drifting over town. The Cram Fire, burning northeast of Madras, exploded to more than 64,000 acres overnight and remains zero percent contained. Gusty winds and hot weather have made firefighting especially tough, and the fire has pushed closer to small communities and critical infrastructure. Just to give you a sense of scale, 129 homes are under Level 3 “Go Now” evacuation orders, with more families nearby on alert. Jefferson County Middle School in Madras is serving as an emergency shelter for people forced to leave, and large animals can be kept at the county fairgrounds through the end of the week. As conditions shift, firefighters are working long hours to protect homes and keep the lines holding, but it has been a tough uphill battle given the dry, receptive fuels and unpredictable wind patterns. Officials urge everyone to stay aware of changing evacuation zones and be sensitive to the needs of neighbors in affected communities who may need a hand right now.
That wildfire smoke is making for some rough air quality in the Bend area and across much of Central and Southern Oregon. The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality says readings topped 150 on the Air Quality Index this morning, squarely in the unhealthy range for everyone. The advisory is in effect through at least tonight. If you’re vulnerable—especially if you have asthma or heart disease—try to keep strenuous activity indoors, use air purifiers if you have them, and keep windows and doors shut. Even healthy folks will want to avoid the worst of it by planning outdoor fun for earlier in the day or after air quality improves. And a quick reminder, local cooling centers and libraries are open to help people escape the smoky heat, and pets should stay inside as much as possible as well.
Looking for something fun to brighten your Thursday? The Mid Summer Carnival at The Grove is happening today, with a dunk tank, lawn games, and a DJ spinning summer tunes—always a great way to let off some steam and connect with your neighbors. The Riverfront Home Tour is also set for this afternoon from 4 to 6, a chance to get a peek at some of the city’s most stunning waterside homes and maybe get a little design inspiration for your own place. Ladies, if you’re looking to ride, tonight is the kickoff for Women of the Dirt at Mt. Bachelor—a free, supportive mountain bike meet-up geared toward riders of all skill levels. It’s a great setting to learn and have fun on two wheels.
For those of you planning ahead, the much-anticipated FairWell Festival hits the Deschutes County Fairgrounds tomorrow and Saturday, bringing music, food, and fair fun just up the road in Redmond. And comedy fans will want to keep eyes on the calendar for the Bend Comedy Festival hitting town soon, featuring local acts and big names in venues all around Bend.
However you choose to make the most of today, stay safe, look out for your neighbors who may be feeling the effects of smoke or fire anxiety, and keep the Bend spirit strong. This has been Bend Local Frequency. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.
For more http://www.quietplease.ai
Get the best deals https://amzn.to/3ODvOta
This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
