The Rail Ridge Fire, sparked by lightning, grew to 146,601 acres according to field observations. Containment remains at 7%, as firefighters work to secure critical areas around threatened communities.
Because of ongoing fire activity, both the Ochoco National Forest and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) implemented partial closures. For details and closure maps, visit the Ochoco National Forest, Malheur National Forest, and BLM websites.
Evacuation information is continuously updated by local authorities:
- Crook County: Check the Crook County Emergency Management website and the Crook County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page for the latest updates.
- Wheeler County: Follow the Wheeler County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page for real-time updates.
- Grant County: Visit the Grant County Emergency Management Facebook page for current information.
The fire saw less activity last night from improved humidity recovery and stable weather conditions. Firefighters prioritized strengthening fire lines southwest of the community of Dayville. A planned firing operation was initiated but had to be paused due to unfavorable conditions.
On Sunday, Oregon State Fire Marshal task forces continued structural protection efforts. Crews placed mobile water sources and installed sprinkler systems around structures under threat. As fire activity increased in the afternoon, crews took up positions around structures in Dayville, Fields Creek, and along the southern edge of the fire. With nine Oregon State Fire Marshal task forces now deployed, structural protection is being maintained around the clock.
On Monday, crews will remain stationed near structures by the fire line and in areas likely to be impacted. The Dayville and South Fork areas will see a strong presence of structural task forces, as will the Aldridge Lookout, which is considered critical infrastructure. Wildland crews are focusing on building and improving containment lines southeast into Guyson Basin and along South Fork Road to slow the fire’s northern and eastern spread.
A spot fire east of Little Baldy near the South Fork John Day River grew considerably from westerly winds, reaching an estimated 100 acres. Crews are working to contain this spot fire while constructing secondary lines along Indian Creek.
On the western side of the fire, firing operations held successfully through yesterday and overnight.
Weather Outlook
A cooler, drier weather pattern is expected to move through the fire area on Monday and Tuesday, with a wetter system forecast to arrive by Wednesday. There is a chance of rain on Thursday, which could aid firefighting efforts.