The Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Green Incident Management team and remaining task forces demobilized Tuesday morning from the Larch Creek Fire in Wasco County. Over the last week, the crew put in a tremendous amount of work to protect people and property from the fire. Because the threat has diminished, the OSFM was able to send these crews home. The Oregon Department of Forestry Incident Management Team 2 remains in command of the fire.
“The collective partnership of ODF and OSFM incident management teams assures Oregonians are well-served,” Incident Commander Matt Howard said.
On Tuesday, The National Weather Service issued a Fire Weather Watch in the fire area. Scattered thunderstorms are expected across Central Oregon beginning Tuesday evening and into Wednesday morning. These storms may bring outflow winds that could impact fire behavior. Improved weather conditions are anticipated by midmorning tomorrow.
A heat advisory is in effect from noon Tuesday through Wednesday night. Increased temperatures and decreased humidity are anticipated. Fire personnel will monitor for smoldering snags and other residual heat.
On Monday night, firefighters focused on securing the fire’s perimeter and strengthening fire lines. On Tuesday, this work will continue along with expanding efforts to mop up deeper into the fire.
Evacuation levels decreased in some areas yesterday, July 15. Please see the evacuation information here: www.facebook.com/WascoCountySheriff
Evacuation shelters: One shelter is available at Wy’East Middle School (3000 Wy’East Road, Hood River). The livestock shelter is adjacent to the Wy’East Middle School at the Hood River Fairgrounds (3020 Wy’East Road, Hood River).
This will be the last update from the Oregon State Fire Marshal on this fire. For fire information, follow the Larch Creek Fire on Facebook.