Red Fire

July 28, 2024

Daily Fire Update

Online: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/ordef-red-fire Facebook – 2024 Red Fire Information

Fire Information Line: 541-208-1766, 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Email: 2024.red@firenet.gov

Red Fire Quick Facts

Size: 433 acres Origin: 5 miles west of Crescent Lake Junction, Oregon County: Klamath

Start Date: July 17, 2024 Cause: Lightning Containment: 0% Total Personnel: 246

Operations: Firefighters continued to construct handlines around the structures near Odell Lake and down to the lake. Hand crews worked along Forest Service Road 60 to reduce concentrations of vegetation 50 to 100 feet off the road. Heavy equipment and crews continued their progress from the east end of the Odell Lake to the south and west decreasing vegetation loading. Shaded fuel break construction continued along the Union Pacific Railroad lines.

Today, two timber task forces will continue to create defensible space around critical structures and other values north and west of the Odell Lake area and the Union Pacific Railroad tracks to the east. Firefighters will continue to install a shaded fuel break 200 feet in along the boundary of the Diamond Peak Wilderness. Structure protection crews will continue to evaluate critical values in the Crescent Lake area. Engineers will assess and develop a plan to mitigate impacts from hauling logs along Forest Service Roads 6010 and 6020.

Round Mountain & Wickiup Fires –

Crews are cold trailing as they continue to mop up the Round Mountain and Wickiup Fires.

Cold trailing is making sure a fire is dead out by carefully feeling with the hand to detect any remaining burning material to locate and eliminate hot spots that could potentially rekindle a fire.

The Round Mountain Fire remains 108 acres and is 70% contained.

The Wickiup Fire remains 168 acres and is 80% contained.

Closures – The Deschutes National Forest has implemented an emergency closure around Crescent Lake and in the Diamond Peak Wilderness. Closure information is available at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/deschutes/alerts-notices/?aid=89091

Evacuation Notices – The WILDFIRE! Level 1 – BE READY to Evacuate notice issued by Klamath County Emergency Management for the Crescent Lake, Odell Lake, and Crescent Junction area remains in effect (INCENDIO FORESTAL! Nivel 1 - ESTÉ PREPARADO para evacuar de las siguientes zonas: Crescent Lake, Odell Lake, Crescent Junction). For information, or to sign up for alerts, visit: www.klamathcounty.org/300/emergency-management

Fire Restrictions – Stage 2 Public Use Fire Restrictions which prohibit open fires, including in developed campgrounds, are in effect for the Deschutes National Forest. Visit the Deschutes National Forest’s website fs.usda.gov/detail/deschutes/home/?cid=stelprdb5297376 for more information. The Industrial Fire Precaution Level is currently Level IV “General Shutdown”.

Weather: Humidities will increase upwards of 35% creating damper air. Temperatures will climb into the mid 70’s near the fire area. Winds will remain very light in the morning hours with development of 20-25 mph northwest winds in the afternoon.

Smoke: Smoke from the Red Fire and other area fires will continue to impact air quality. Air quality information can be found at https://fire.airnow.gov/.

Incident Commander J. Willoughby
Location:  southeast of Butte, MT between Interstate 90 and Highway 2
Start Date: 7/19/2024 
Cause: Undetermined
Size: 80 acres 
Resources on Site:  2 engines; 2 type 2 hand crews
Total Personnel Assigned:  79
Containment:  95%

KEY MESSAGES:  
The evacuation warning issued by Butte-Silver Bow Law Enforcement Department has been rescinded.

The proximity of the fire location to recreation sites such as the Continental Divide Trail and the Silver Bow Archery Range in Thompson Park presents a further need for public awareness. The public is advised to stay out of these areas, as crews and helicopters continue their work. Ensuring firefighter safety and protecting life and property are of the utmost importance during any incident.

CURRENT STATUS/PLANNED ACTIONS: 
Previously constructed firelines held, despite gusty winds over several days. Firefighting efforts have resulted in securing sections of the fire edges, 3 chains (198 feet) into the interior. Crews will continue securing the constructed lines and “mopping-up” all the way around the fire footprint.

Fire managers are calling the fire 95% contained. Containment of a fire implies there are secure firelines around the perimeter, directly next to the edge where the fire burned. As the crews progress around the entire fire perimeter with “mop-up” and extinguish all residual heat interior to the fire edge, the containment percentage will increase.

WEATHER AND FIRE BEHAVIOR:
Fire behavior was minimal yesterday. Little to no smoke was visible.

Elevated fire weather conditions are expected Sunday and Monday, given gusty west-southwest winds of 20-25 mph and humidity in the upper teens. Mid-level moisture will increase into Sunday morning, leading to an isolated threat for showers and thunderstorms. Another round of showers and thunderstorms will develop Sunday afternoon. Showers and thunderstorms will be high based and mainly dry, with chances for wetting rains at 10 percent.
 

Actualización diaria del incendio Pioneer                                

28 de julio de 2024

Datos clave

Tamaño: 33,277 acres              

Fecha de inicio: 8 de junio de 2024           

Ubicación: 31 millas al NO de Chelan, WA

Contención: 10%                       

Personal: 712                                 

Causa: De orígen humano, a ser determinada

Recursos asignados: 11 cuadrillas, 4 helicópteros, 24 camiones de bomberos, 27 tanques de agua, 18 maquinarias pesadas

SITUACIÓN ACTUAL: Ayer, el incendio Pioneer brincó el desagüe de Fourmile y avanzó más al norte. Este desplazamiento resultó en que el Departamento de gestión de emergencias del condado de Chelan emitiera un aviso de evacuación de Nivel 3 (¡Váyase ya!) a partir de las 8 a.m. del domingo 28 de julio para la comunidad de Stehekin, desde el norte de Moore Point hasta el valle de Stehekin. Hay más información disponible, lo que incluye los horarios de los botes e información de los refugios para las evacuaciones, en el sitio del Departamento de gestión de emergencias del condado de Chelan en https://t.ly/QoH9w. Se reducjo el nivel de evacuación desde Safety Harbor hasta Moore Point a un Nivel 2.

Los bomberos han estado trabajando en colaboración con el grupo de protección de estructuras movilizadas por el estado, para proteger a la comunidad de Stehekin. Debido a estos esfuerzos coordinados, se han instalado sistemas de mangueras y rociadores, se ha minimizado el material inflamable alrededor de casas y estructuras, y se ha construido un cortafuego alrededor del pueblo. Ayer, los bomberos removieron árboles caídos y continuaron protegiendo estructuras y colocando más mangueras y rociadores, mientras que removían rocas y material vegetal por encima de la carretera desde el desembarco hacia el valle de Stehekin que conduce a un paso seguro para llegar al punto de acceso a los botes. A lo largo de la orilla del lago, continuaron patrullando y extinguiendo material combustible alrededor de las estructuras.

La mayor parte de la actividad y propagación reciente del fuego ha sido en la esquina noroeste del incendio, aunque también hay fuego activo en el desagüe de Prince Creek. Se ha contenido la mayor parte del borde a lo largo de la orilla del lago y a lo largo del extremo este, y el fuego no brincado la cordillera Sawtooth. Aún no hay indicación de calor en el desagüe de Lone Fir ubicado en el extremo sur. Los bomberos continúan monitoreando el extremo sur y mejorando las líneas de contingencia cerca de Manson.

ACTIVIDADES DE HOY: En Stehekin, los bomberos continuarán mejorando el cortafuego y preparándose para proteger las viviendas e infraestructura. También estarán llegando otros bomberos de Lucerne para apoyar con el trabajo de quema estratégica en Stehekin. A lo largo de la orilla del lago, las cuadrillas continuarán patrullando, extinguiendo material combustible, y realizando quemas estratégicos alrededor de las estructuras donde sea necesario y según lo permitan las condiciones. También seguirán mejorando las carreteras y las líneas de continencia al sur del incendio y al este de Manson. Los bomberos también están preparados para ayudar en atacar cualquier nuevo incendio.

CLIMA Y HUMO: De nuevo hoy se esperan condiciones calientes y secas, con vientos ligeros a través del día y ráfagas a media tarde y noche de hasta 15 mph. Las temperaturas estarán entre los 70 y los 80 grados. El lunes, se esperan lluvias ligeras sobre el incendio. Una alerta de calidad del aire se ha emitido para el condado de Chelan. Consulte el Pronóstico actual del humo para el centro norte de Washington (airfire.org) para más información sobre el humo y la calidad del aire.

EVACUACIONES:  Los niveles 1, 2 y 3 de evacuación siguen vigentes alrededor del incendio Pioneer. Visite https://t.ly/QoH9w para tener más información.

CIERRE DEL BOSQUE: Cierres vigentes del Parque nacional North Cascades: https://www.nps.gov/noca/index.htm

El Bosque Nacional Okanogan-Wenatchee ha emitido una orden de cierre sobre gran parte del área afectada por el incendio: https://bit.ly/PioneerClosure. Las fogatas están prohibidas. Hay una restricción temporal de vuelo (TFR, en inglés) sobre el área del incendio: https://tfr.faa.gov/save_pages/detail_4_6779.html. La actividad de drones no autorizados está prohibida por la TFR.

InciWeb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/wases-pioneer 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560760893080 

Línea de información sobre el incendio: 541-861-5808, de 8 AM a 8 PM

Correo electrónico: 2024.pioneer@firenet.gov 

Trout Fire: 23,369 acres - 25% containment

Long Fire: 9,204 acres - 35% containment

Borel Fire: 38,446 acres - 0% containment

Total Personnel: 1,059

Current Situation: Under red flag weather conditions, the Borel Fire has burned over 38,000 acres in less than four days. Firefighters are actively engaging the fire using both direct and indirect tactics, while law enforcement continues evacuation efforts as the fire moves eastward. Ensuring the safety of residents and protecting property remain top priorities. Evacuation warnings and orders enhance safety for residents and allow emergency personnel to concentrate on controlling the fire. Residents can check the status of their zone using Genasys Protect's interactive map at tinyurl.com/jcdv55f9. As of Sunday morning, fire management has transitioned to a unified command led by the California Interagency Incident Management Team (CIIMT) 11 and the Kern County Fire Department.

Trout Fire: Fire growth was minimal on Sunday despite consistent warm, dry, and windy conditions, allowing crews to make progress in suppressing hotspots along the fire’s edge. On the southern perimeter, crews set up camp near the fireline in the Domeland Wilderness to extinguish lingering areas of heat and construct fireline with hand tools from Sirretta Pass toward Smith Meadow.

Long Fire: Fire activity remains minimal, consisting primarily of creeping and smoldering flames. Some unburned vegetation in the fire’s interior may continue to produce smoke, but crews report no heat sources threatening existing containment lines. Firefighters continue to make progress constructing handlines southwestward from the fire’s northeast side near the Pacific Crest Trail toward Palome Creek.

Borel Fire: The Borel Fire has slightly slowed its progression due to a change in fuel complexion as vegetation goes from dry grass to green brush. The fire is spreading eastward towards the ridgeline of Libel peak. Its southward edge sits west of Walker Basin and south eastward toward Thompson Canyon. Aerial resources, including helicopters and air tankers, are being utilized to support ground crews in slowing the fire's progression. Firefighters are focusing on protecting structures and establishing containment lines around the most active fire fronts. Today, the fire behavior is expected to be, once again, very extreme under long-term red-flag-warning weather conditions.

Weather & Air Quality: A Red Flag Warning is in effect through 11 p.m. Sunday for low relative humidity and elevated winds. Fire behavior on new and existing fires is expected to be extreme. Hot, dry conditions are expected today with wind gusts up to 35 mph possible. Westerly winds will remain elevated on ridgetops throughout Sunday night. A daily smoke outlook is produced for communities affected by wildfire smoke: tinyurl.com/452x2uzr.

Sequoia National Forest & BLM Closures & Restrictions: Sequoia National Forest lands, roads, trails, and recreation sites around the Trout and Long Fires are temporarily closed under Forest Order No. 0513-24-12. Lands, roads, trails, and recreation sites around the Borel Fire are closed under Forest Order No. 0513-24-14. Fire restrictions are in effect under Forest Order No. 0513-24-10. All orders, maps, and accompanying appendices can be found on the Forest’s website: tinyurl.com/2en2d36k. The Bureau of Land Management’s Bakersfield Field Office has temporarily closed Long Valley Campground, Chimney Creek Campground, and portions of the Pacific Crest Trail. View the emergency closure order here: tinyurl.com/4mprcb9b. The PCT is closed between Hwy 178 at Walker Pass (mile 653) and the South Fork of the Kern River bridge (mile 717.7).

Evacuation Center: Residents under an evacuation warning or order can go to the Tehachapi Education Center (126 S. Snyder Ave., Tehachapi). Animal services will assist with sheltering companion animals at the center. 

Large-Animal Assistance: The rodeo grounds in Kernville (467 Scodie Ave., Kernville) is available for residents who need to move large animals or livestock. For more information, contact Orion, Kernville Chamber of Commerce, 661-340-0026.

Road Closures: State Route 178 is closed from 4.1 mi east of the junction of SR 184 to Democrat Springs. View the interactive Caltrans map for the most current road closure information: quickmap.dot.ca.gov/. Portions of Caliente Bodfish Road are also closed. Visit the Kern County Public Works Department website for the most up to date information on county road closures (tinyurl.com/z6crvp6t).

Evacuations: Everyone in areas of active fires should “Know Your Zone.” Go to genasys Protect (tinyurl.com/jcdv55f9) to identify the zone you reside in.

• Kern County has multiple evacuation orders and warnings in effect due to the Borel Fire. The following zones are under an evacuation order: KRN-403-A, KRN-403B, KRN-734, KRN-735, KRN-736, KRN-737, KRN-738, KRN-739, KRN-740, KRN-741, KRN-742, KRN-743, KRN-747-A, KRN747-B and KRN-748.
• The following zones are under an evacuation warning: KRN- 729, KRN-730, KRN-731, KRN-732, KRN-733, KRN-749, KRN-750 and KRN-752
• Tulare County has evacuation warnings and advisories in effect due to the Trout and Long Fires. The following zones are under an evacuation warning: TLC-E274-B and TLC-E261-B. The following zones are under an evacuation advisory: TLC-E297-A, TLC-E250, TLC-E274-A, and TLC-E261-A

Falls and Telephone Fires Update for July 28, 2024 

Falls Fire Quick Facts:  

Size: 142,307 Start Date: July 10, 2024 Location: 13 Miles NW of Burns, OR 

Containment: 57% Total Personnel: 1,545 Cause: Human-caused, under investigation 

Structures Triaged: Residences: 386; Commercial: 119 Outbuildings: 760 

Resources Assigned: 43 hand crews, 74 engines, 23 bulldozers, 33 water tenders 

Aerial resources available to the fire: 2 Type 1 Helicopters assigned

Telephone Fire Quick Facts: 

Size: 22,429          Start Date: July 22, 2024      Location: 12 miles NE of Burns, OR 

Containment: 0%.   Total Personnel: Staffed by Falls Fire personnel   Cause: Lightning/Natural

Sand Fire Quick Facts: 

Size: 4,204          Start Date: July 25, 2024      Location: 17 miles SW of Seneca, OR 

Containment: 0%    Total Personnel: Staffed by Falls Fire personnel   Cause: Undetermined

New Fire Activity Quick Facts: 

Whiskey Mountain: 3,402 acres; Cow Creek: 86 acres; Parasol: 485 acres; Poison: 182

Community Meetings Scheduled: 

Sunday, July 28 at 3 pm, at the Seneca City Hall 

Monday, July 29 at 7 pm, at the Chamber of Commerce in Burns   

Both meetings will share updates on the Falls, Telephone, and other fires in the area.

Fire Summary:

Overall, acreage gains on all fires yesterday were much more moderate than in the prior few days.

Falls Fire: On Saturday, there was minimal fire activity on the fire and the southern portion reported no growth. 

To the west, crews utilized roads to prep for containment line around the Whiskey Fire and conducted small firing operations to secure the road system contingency lines. Westerly winds were beneficial to the Whiskey Fire for tactical firing operations, pushing the fire back into the Falls Fire burned area. Portions of handline were being tied into the fire perimeter on Whiskey Mountain.  The northwest corner of the fire remained quiet and winds were in the favor of firefighters working direct on the fire’s edge. Wildland resources on the northeast portion of the fire, in the Myrtle Creek area, continued to face challenging conditions due to terrain. The remainder of the fire  experienced minimal fire activity. Today, crews will continue to monitor and patrol on the south end of the fire and repurpose some resources to other more active areas. To the west, work will progress fire near Whiskey Mountain as conditions allow. Crews are using hoselays along dozer lines to connect the Falls Fire to the Sand Fire.

Sand Fire: On the northern edge of Falls, crews took advantage of favorable winds at the Sand Fire and conducted firing operations to secure fireline. Firing operations remove unburned pockets of vegetation between unburned areas and constructed firelines. The fire is currently near the 3160 road. Turning the corner on the west side of the fire, dozers are being used and firefighters are going as direct as possible. Crews are also using existing road systems to develop containment lines.

Parasol and Poison Fires: Poison and Parasol experienced moderate fire behavior. Crews scouted for indirect attack opportunities. While the Parasol Fire experienced small growth on Saturday, crews were able to secure and improve line all the way around the fire. The fire sits at 485 acres as of Sunday.  Yesterday, crews continued to complete line around the Poison Fire and set-up pumps and hoselays. This fire is in tricky terrain which is slowing suppression progress.

Telephone Fire:  On Saturday, Telephone Fire remained a top priority area and weather conditions continued to be challenging. Wind-driven fire continued to run, torch and spot in the east and southeast portion of the fire area, near Rattlesnake Rd. Crews encountered strong winds as they worked to engage a new spot fire off the eastern edge of Telephone near FSR 711. Additional crews and air resources responded. The incident utilized 8 hand crews, 10 engines and 6 dozers. OSFM resources provided structural protection. On the fire’s west side, crews have strong containment from the northern portion of the 28 road to the southern part of the fire at the 28 road near Cow Creek.  Firing operations will continue in order to remove burnable vegetation on the fire’s edge, between the active fire and the direct fireline.  The fire will remain a priority as crews work direct to get a foothold and increase containment. Today, crews are working to secure a slopover across the 28 road and extending indirect line and using road systems, dozer line, existing fuel treatment areas and previous burn areas as well as air support to connect to the Upper Pine Fire area, being mindful of cultural resources in the area.

Ritter Fire: Yesterday, the Alaska Incident Management Team assumed command of the Ritter Fire, located approximately 30 miles east of Burns (just east of the Stinking Water access road) and west of Warm Springs Dam. Two hotshot crews, elite firefighters that excel in challenging terrain, worked on the southeast corner to establish containment line in advance of expected winds. This part of the fire area remains difficult to access due to steep ravines, channeled winds and rugged topography. Today’s plan is to secure line already created in the southeast corner of the fire and work on a green island of unburned vegetation of potential concern.

With the significant number of new fire starts in the area at this time, firefighters remain vigilant and focused on initial attack (IA) and remain ready to respond to any new threats.

This morning, Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) resources are demobilizing from the Falls and Telephone Fires.  OSFM crews have completed structural triage, surface prep, full prep and point protection on structures throughout the incident area. These efforts, in conjunction with the progress made by wildland resources, have helped mitigate the risk to structures.

Wildland resources will be assuming responsibility for ongoing structural protection, and local resources remain available to assist if needed. OSFM resources are available to return if there is an imminent threat to structures that exceeds the capabilities of existing resources.

OSFM would like to extend appreciation to the local communities and agencies for their ongoing support and cooperation throughout this challenging time.

Weather: Smoky conditions will persist Sunday and may worsen throughout the day. A deep inversion layer will take time to lift. Additional smoke from other fires burning throughout the west will impact the area. Temperatures started out much cooler Sunday morning in the fire area and will climb to the mid-80’s by afternoon.  Diurnal northwesterly winds will transition to the west, with potential wind gusts between 20-25 mph again today. A potential dry cold front is possible on Monday night.

Evacuations: Evacuations remain in place in both Grant and Harney Counties and have expanded due to the Telephone, Parasol and Poison Fires. For the most accurate evacuation information, please visit the Harney County Sheriff’s evacuation map here: https://tinyurl.com/3zst4sjy, or the Grant County Emergency Management Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068819321423.

Closures: Due to active wildfires compounded by extremely unfavorable weather conditions, limited firefighting resources and County Resources, Malheur National Forest officials have temporarily closed lands within the Malheur National Forest.

Investigation: U.S. Forest Service fire investigators are seeking the public’s assistance with any tips or information pertinent to the start of the Falls Fire on the Malheur National Forest. Please submit any information that could assist fire investigation efforts to SM.FS.R6TipHotLine@usda.gov.   

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Falls-Fire-2024-61562126623985/ 

Falls Fire InciWeb:  https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/ormaf-falls-fire 

Telephone Fire InciWeb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/ormaf-telephone-fire 

Fire Information Line: 541-208-4370, staffed 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. 

Email: 2024.Falls@firenet.gov 

Harney County non-emergency evacuation questions: 541-589-5579 

Air quality questions: 541-573-2271  

Smoke Outlooks: https://outlooks.airfire.org/outlook 

Sunday, July 28, 2024 The evacuation areas for the Swawilla Fire have changed. Please refer to the map. Please contact the Confederated Colville Tribes Emergency Operations Cetner for evacuation questions – (509) 634-7350

Evacuation Information for Swawilla Fire to accompany evacuation map July 28, 2024

Sun, 07/28/2024 - 13:10

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Evacuation Information for Swawilla Fire to accompany evacuation map July 28, 2024

Evacuation Map Swawilla Fire July 28, 2024

Sun, 07/28/2024 - 13:10

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Evacuation Map Swawilla Fire July 28, 2024

July 28, 2024

Northwest Team 7 is currently managing the Diamond Complex, estimated at 4,990 acres and 7% contained, consisting of 26 fires.  The team has assumed command of the Middle Fork, 659 acres and 1% contained, within Crater Lake National Park. The park remains open. There are fire personnel in the area, so visitors should use caution when traveling within the park.

Currently there are 27 fires and 620 personnel assigned to the two incidents. 

Crews are engaged in a full suppression strategy utilizing direct attack on the fires’ edge where access and firefighter safety allow and implement indirect strategies using constructed control lines or natural barriers where direct attack cannot be done safely.  Pacific Power and Light infrastructure within the complex continue to be a top priority for protection as crews attack fires threatening those resources. 

The Trail fire, east of Hwy 138 on the west slope of Mt. Thielsen, is 826 acres and 25% contained. Crews continue to strengthen containment lines on the north and south flanks to keep the fire within the current control lines. 

The Lemolo fire, north of Lemolo Lake on Bunker Hill, is 775 acres and 0% contained. Crews have made good progress on the east flank and will continue to secure the dozer line and look for opportunities to implement control lines north of the fire to protect recreational values around Lemolo Lake.

The Pine Bench fire, north of Hwy 138 near Dry Creek, is 1,855 acres and 0% contained. The Prineville Hotshots initiated a burn out operations along the 4775 road. This tactic uses fire to fight fire by strategically burning fuels between the containment line and the fires’ edge. Crews will continue to monitor around the burn out and mop up any new spot fires that occur.

The Watson fire, north of Hwy 138 on Watson Ridge, is 232 acres and 50% contained. It has been fully lined with hand line and dozer line or hoses, and crews will work to fortify and hold these lines in today’s shift. 

The Loafer fire is at 33 acres and 50% contained, crews were able to utilize a masticator, a piece of heavy equipment used to clear vegetation off existing roads. This allowed crews to gain closer access to the fire where they utilized water tenders to soak any hot spots along the edge. Today they will continue to fortify the line and identify any additional hot spots.

There are smaller clusters of fires within the complex that consist of: Pig Iron, 27 acres and 95% contained, near Pig Iron Mountain north of Hwy 138; Brodie, 109 acres and 0% contained,  about 5 miles south of Hwy 138 and south of Devils Canyon; Trep, 123 acres and 0% contained, about 4 miles south of Hwy 138; Garwood, 5 acres and 95% contained, about 3 miles southwest of Mt. Bailey; Slide, 0.1 acres and 95% contained, northeast of Pine Bench; Potter, 673 acres and 0% contained, north of Hwy 138 about 2 miles southeast of Potter Mountain; Ooya, 182 acres and 0% contained, north of Hwy 138 about 1 mile northeast of Bird Point; Clearwater, 0.7 acre and 100% contained, south of Hwy 138 about 5 miles northwest of Diamond Lake; Elephant, 0.7 acres and 95% contained, 2 miles southwest of Lemolo Lake; Lost Bear, 0.1 acres and 0% contained, 2 miles south of Hwy 138; Lost, 14 acres and 0% contained, 4 miles south of Hwy 138;  Sheep, 0.3 acres and 95% contained, 3 miles north of Diamond Lake; Thin, 0.6  acre and 90% contained, four miles northwest of Diamond Lake; Trap, 11 acres and 0% contained, 1 mile south of Hwy 138 near Trap Mountain; Bear Trap, 64 acres and 10% contained, 2 miles south of Hwy 138 near Bear Trap Mountain; Campwood, 17 acres and 0% contained, 2 miles south of Hwy 138; Rough, 11 acres and 0% contained, two miles south of Hwy 138;  Birds, 0.1 acres and 100% contained; Wood, 21 acres and 0% contains, 2 miles south of Hwy 138, and Mowich, 0.4 acre and 75% contained, 1 mile north of Hwy 138. In addition, there are two more unnamed fires in the complex, both at 0.4 acres and 0% contained. 

The Middle Fork fire is located in the northwest corner of Crater Lake National Park. Crews made excellent progress yesterday establishing a western boundary and will continue to fortify this line today.  Divisions will work across the southern perimeter to create fuel breaks to stop progression toward the historic buildings and infrastructure in the park. They will continue to improve access and create fuel breaks along the Bert Creek Trail to the junction of the Bald Creek Trail.

Today, firefighters will continue direct suppression on accessible fires, and will develop specific suppression strategies for other less accessible fires to be carried out as resources become available.

Nationally and in the Pacific Northwest, fire activity is putting an extreme demand on firefighting resources. The highest priority remains public and firefighter safety and protecting infrastructure and homes.

Weather: The forecast remains in the mid to upper 70’s and will be mostly sunny today with areas of smoke. Humidity levels remain in the 20-30% range through the weekend, and are expected to increase early next week as weather pattens shift and temperatures increase by the end of the week.

Fire Behavior: Lower humidity recoveries over night will result in more active fire behavior especially along ridgetops where fuels are drier. Some short uphill runs are possible through surface fuels with potential for some single tree or group torching in the afternoon hours.

Smoke Outlook: Smoke will remain the area and may reduce visibility and hinder air operations.  For the most up to date information, please visit www.fire.airnow.gov 

Diamond Lake Campgrounds are open. 

Starting July 27, 2024, the Administrative Closure for Diamond Lake, Thielsen View, and Broken Arrow Campgrounds has been lifted. Campgrounds will be first-come, first-serve for Saturday, July 27, and Sunday, July 28. They will go back into reservation status for Monday, July 29.

Closures and Evacuations: Umpqua National Forest has issued two closures across the forest in response to fire activity to protect public and wildland firefighter safety. Emergency Fire Closure ORDER NO. 06-15-24-03 and Emergency Fire Closure ORDER NO. 06-15-02-24-01 impact all of the Cottage Grove Ranger District, most of the Diamond Lake Ranger District, and parts of the Tiller and North Umpqua Ranger Districts. The closure orders can be found here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/umpqua/alerts-notices. Fire danger is set at Very High and Public Use Restrictions are set at Level 2: https://bit.ly/3xIZZdK.    

The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office has downgraded the evacuation order for the Trail fire from a Level 2: BE SET to a Level 1: Get Ready, but the Level 3: GO NOW remains in effect for the Trail fire east of Hwy 138. The Level 2: BE SET and Level 3: GO NOW evacuations for the Lemolo fire remain in place. There is still a Level 2: BE SET for the Pine Bench Fire. For more information visit the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office website: www.dcso.com/evacuations.  

Firefighters continue to hold and secure more line with milder temperatures in the forecast.

Ukiah, Ore. - Firefighters with Oregon Department of Forestry Teams 1 and 3 continue to make strides across the Battle Mountain Complex fires, with more lines being built, connected and strengthened on both Zones I and II. Slight changes in weather today may test some control lines, however it will also offer opportunities for firefighters to secure areas that have been challenging. Wind direction is the biggest change; winds from the west will be present across the fires today, which may provide some natural help to firefighters, along with the potential for clearer skies for continued aircraft use.

On Zone I, firefighters had a good night overall; on the southwest side, resources were able to conduct strategic firing operations to better secure line between the fire and scattered homes in the area. Today, firefighters will mop up these areas, further strengthening line, with continued structure protection provided by Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) task forces. To the northwest, much of the same work will occur. West winds in the afternoon should help naturally push fire away from the line and into the interior of the fire itself.

To the south in Zone I, firefighters continue to hold and strengthen line from Monument to the east. Firefighters will focus on further mop-up in these areas today. To the north, resources continued building line. A lot of this terrain is difficult to access and building a strong line can be challenging; however, crews have used strategic firing operations as a beneficial tool in stopping fire growth.

In Zone II, firefighters capitalized on the milder conditions and increased resources to cut-in tighter line along the northeast perimeter to save an additional 400 acres of forested land. 

“This was another big win we’ve been looking for,” said ODF Team 3 Incident Commander Tyler McCarty. “We’re really proud of the firefighters and our operations staff for taking advantage of this opportunity. This will protect a lot of homes in that area, minimize acres and protect the community’s natural resources.”

On the southern head of the fire, crews carried out a burn operation, to remove unburnt vegetation and used dozers to connect into Zone I to the west to minimize new growth. 

Elsewhere in Zone II, firefighters are holding and securing lines, while catching smaller fires that spotted or crossed over firelines. Crews are beginning to mop up in more areas in Zone II where lines are more secure. Mop-up operations also continue on the North Fork Owens Fire to north of the Monkey Creek Fire.

Evacuations: Level 1 (Be Ready), Level 2 (Be Set) and Level 3 (Go Now) evacuations are in effect. For updated information, visit:
• For Umatilla County, follow www.facebook.com/UmatillaCountySheriff or sign up for Umatilla County Emergency Alert System at https://member.everbridge.net/index/2590041373147145.
• For Grant County, visit the RAPTOR arcgis site or sign up for alerts at: https://member.everbridge.net/index/825462649520134.
• For Morrow County, visit https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/de78333b0d2544f7a320142174aa20ae 
Public Land Closures:

The Bureau of Land Management has closed public lands along the John Day River from Kimberly to Dale, and from Kimberly to Service Creek. More information here: https://www.blm.gov/programs/public-safety-and-fire/fire-and-aviation/regional-info/oregon-washington/fire-restrictions.

The Umatilla National Forest has implemented a closure for public lands within the Heppner Ranger District and the North Fork John Day Ranger District. More information at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/umatilla/news-events/?cid=FSEPRD1194462 and https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/umatilla/alerts-notices/?cid=stelprdb5286768.

FIRE AT A GLANCE
Total Estimated Complex Size: 162,389 acres
Monkey Creek Fire: 157,905
North Fork Owens: 4,484 acres
Total Containment: 7%
Cause: Under Investigation 
Estimated Cost: $18,200,000

All Resources 
Hand Crews: 52 
Engines: 99 
Water Tenders: 41 
Dozers: 20
Helicopters: 8
Total Personnel: 1,712

Firefighters continue to hold and strengthen Courtrock Fire lines

MONUMENT, Ore. – Line on the Courtrock Fire continues to be built by firefighters with the Oregon Department of Forestry Incident Management Team 1, local landowner resources, and Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) structural task forces. The fire continues to push forward to the southeast, where terrain significantly limits access by vehicles. Bulldozers and other equipment are playing a heavy role in building line on this incident, and aircraft has been an added asset over the past couple of days. West winds expected today may bring even more visibility, allowing for continued use of helicopters. 

Three OSFM task forces are assigned to work on the incident today, the majority stationed in the Fox Valley area. Structure protection continues to be a focus, with a collaborative effort on the ground between OSFM, landowners and the ODF John Day unit. Both engines and bulldozers are being used to protect homes. 

Despite challenges in the past few days, the south and northeast lines of the Courtrock Fire are holding well, and firefighters are working to strengthen lines, which is contributing to an increase in containment. 

While temperatures have been slightly cooler, vegetation remains extremely dry and primed to burn; firefighters have continuously seen increased fire activity in the afternoon, and will be monitoring conditions as the day progresses. West winds are expected to pick up around 10-15 miles per hour. Due to these conditions, fire growth may naturally occur moving east. A potential for rain is in the forecast for Monday evening, and incident meteorologists will continue to monitor this incoming system. 

Due to fire activity in the area, the U.S. Forest Service has issued closures for the Malheur. Up to date information on Malheur National Forest closures can be found here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/news/malheur/news-events

Information for Zone I of the Battle Mountain Complex, including the western portion of the Monkey Creek Fire (formerly Boneyard Fire) can now be found at: www.facebook.com/battlemountaincomplex2024 

Evacuations: Level 1 (Get Ready), Level 2 (Be Set) and Level 3 (Go Now) evacuations are in effect. For updated evacuation information:

• Grant County Emergency Management Office’s Facebook page, or sign up for the Grant County Emergency Alert System at https://member.everbridge.net/825462649520134/login. Morrow County Evacuation information can be found at https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/de78333b0d2544f7a320142174aa20ae

Shelters: An evacuation center has been set up at Grant Union High School (911 S Canyon Blvd., John Day, OR 97845).

Clean air and cooling centers are located in the following locations in Grant County:

• Grant County Library- cooling & clean air, Monday – Thursday 11 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
• John Day Senior Center- cooling & clean air, Monday & Thursday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Tuesday 12 – 4 p.m.
• Prairie City Public Works - clean air center, Monday -  Friday 12 – 7 p.m. 
• Dayville Community Hall- cooling & clean air, 24/7