Hot, dry, and windy conditions are challenging firefighters as they work to contain the Elk Lane Fire in Jefferson County. On Monday afternoon and evening, firefighters saw significant fire growth to the east of Elk Drive and west of Dry Canyon. The public is encouraged not to call non-emergency 9-1-1 for updates or reports, but instead call Elk Lane Fire information at (458) 206-1745.
The Elk Lane Fire was reported on August 4 at 7:30 p.m. burning approximately seven miles northwest of Madras. Overnight, an infrared flight showed the fire had grown to 5,093 acres. On Monday morning, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act, prompting the Oregon State Fire Marshal to mobilize its Red Incident Management Team and five structural task forces. The Red Incident Management Team is in unified command with the Central Oregon Type 3 Team. On Monday night, the Oregon State Fire Marshal mobilized three additional task forces, bringing the total to eight.
The fire has burned mostly within the vicinity of Belmont and Elk Drives and into the Deschutes River and Dry Canyons. The fire remains on the east side of the river. Crews are working hard throughout the day and night to maintain containment lines along Belmont Drive while taking action against any growth in the Deschutes River Canyon. The fire was active on the east side of the fire and is currently burning within Dry Canyon. Structures remain threatened and evacuation notices are in place.
Weather
Hot temperatures (high 80s to above 90), low humidity values (teens to single digits), and light winds are forecasted to continue for the area through the week. Afternoon winds are predicted out of the northeast.
Evacuations
For the most up-to-date evacuation information in Jefferson County check out the latest evacuation map. Evacuation information can also be found on the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Facebook Page.
The Madras High School is a temporary evacuation site, and the Red Cross is on scene. Evacuated animals can be taken to the Jefferson County Fairgrounds.
All public lands in Central Oregon, are in Public Use (Fire) Restrictions. All open flames, including woodstoves and charcoal briquette fires, are prohibited. In times of high fire danger, everyone must follow fire prevention measures to avoid additional strain on overburdened resources. The public’s cooperation in adhering to fire bans and restrictions is vital to prevent new fires from starting and to help our firefighters focus on containing the existing fires.
Fire Information
458-206-1745 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
For the air quality in your area visit, https://www.airnow.gov/