Despite the crisp feeling of fall temperatures at night, the potential for fire danger in the Columbia Gorge remains high.

“It’s really important that people understand how dry it still really is,” said Greg Borton, the fire chief for Odell and Pine Grove.

Because of that danger, the debris burning ban has been extended indefinitely in Wasco and Hood River counties. This ban prohibits debris burning in barrels as well as piles. Restrictions are already in place for campfires, barbecues, chainsaw use, off-road vehicle use and smoking in timber, brush and grass areas.

All current burn permits continue to be void and won’t be valid until the burning ban is lifted. Chiefs will re-evaluate conditions during the next few weeks.