The OSFM task forces and ODF crews completed their first 24-hour work cycle. Crews worked to create fire containment lines and were supported by air operations. Dozer lines and hand lines were established in the southeast corner of the fire near Ditch Road and Natural Pasture Road. Additional lines were also completed to the north near Old Wapinitia Road.
Firefighters called in aircraft for retardant and water drops to assist with fire suppression and containment.
Late into the afternoon, the fire spotted over the line east of Batty Road and west of Old Wapinitia Road in a wheat field. Crews and landowners were able to extinguish it and back burn to create some black.
With great sadness, we are reporting one primary residence was lost to the fire. Fire crews were working to protect the structure at the time.
High winds and ember showers were present.
Four Task Forces and one dozer were assigned evening shift. There were no new starts, and the fire did lay down. Today, firefighters will begin the mop-up process on the heel of the fire, along west Miller Road. They will be checking for hot spots and increasing the control line.
Cooler conditions are expected today with temperatures reaching 82-85 degrees. Westerly winds are predicted to be 5-10 mph. Minimal relative humidity recovery overnight. The weekend forecast predicts temperatures increasing to 100 degrees.
A media line tour is scheduled for 1 p.m. Journalists must bring all line safety personal protective gear. The fire is not able to provide any PPE.
Please call 541-979-4096 to confirm attendance.
We are grateful for the cooperation and support of the Wasco County community, ODF partners, BLM cooperators, and the firefighters dedicated to this incident.
An evacuation shelter is established at the Dufur High School, 802 NE 5th Street.
Wasco County Sheriff’s Office evacuation details can be found by visiting https://www.facebook.com/WascoCountySheriff.
