JOHN DAY – The Malheur National Forest ramped up the fire danger to “extreme” Monday across the forest.

The designation reflects the hot, dry weather and a low amount of live fuel moisture.

In extreme conditions, fires start and spread quickly and burn intensely, posing the risk of developing into large, destructive wildfires.

The forest’s north zone, which includes the Prairie City and Blue Mountain Ranger Districts, is at IFPL II, while the south zone – Emigrant Ranger District – is at IFPL III.