Progress on the Pilot Rock/Juniper Canyon fire made significant gains Thursday as state resources engaged with local fire districts to establish control lines and work to ensure the risk to communities decreases. Crews worked around Coombs Canyon, Gurdane, and Pilot Rock to identify the fire footprint and limit the potential for future spread.
Fire officials worked with the Umatilla County Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Management staff to reduce evacuation levels. Areas around the fire, previously in Level 3, have been reduced to Level 2 – Get set. Those who live near the fire are encouraged to watch the Umatilla County Facebook page for any further changes to evacuation levels.
State resources have begun to demobilize off the Pilot Rock/Juniper Canyon fire. Fire responsibilities will remain with the local fire districts and departments throughout Umatilla County.
Weather patterns in the region remain hot and dry, with high fire potential. Community members are advised to be fire-safe and mindful of this potential. Report any fires through 911.
Stay informed on updated evacuation through the Umatilla County Sheriff.
The Pilot Rock Fire was located 4 miles southwest of Pilot Rock, OR, and was first reported on Wed, July 17, just after 4 p.m. The cause is under investigation. This is the final update from the OSFM.