Firefighters are concentrating efforts on protecting the Dayville and Morgan Mountain areas, building on significant progress made in recent days. The Rail Ridge Fire was mapped at 161,675 and 12 percent contained. Crews are taking advantage of cooler weather conditions to establish strong containment lines around the north end of the fire, which poses a threat to Dayville. Oregon State Fire Marshal crews are focusing on structure protection and mopping up near the fire line.
In the northwest section near Battle Creek, the fire is moving slowly through lighter vegetation, and crews are considering using heavy equipment to improve access points for firefighters. In the Morgan Mountain area, firefighters are working to contain a slop-over fire while OSFM task forces continue structure protection efforts. The southern and southwestern sections of the fire have seen minimal activity, and crews are patrolling and mopping up hot spots.
Weather and Air Support
A cold front moving into the area today is expected to bring cooler temperatures, higher humidity, and the possibility of rain, which will help slow the fire’s spread. Gusty winds and thunderstorms are possible in the afternoon. Firefighters are ready to use air support throughout the day, weather permitting.
Progress and Challenges
Yesterday, cooler temperatures allowed crews to make substantial progress, particularly near Dayville, where controlled burns were used to remove fuels from the fire’s path. OSFM teams have assessed over 470 structures, conducting fuel reduction and setting up pumps and sprinkler systems to protect homes and property. However, some areas, like Aldrich Lookout, remain inaccessible due to hazardous conditions, and efforts to clear roads and improve access will continue.
Fire activity along the eastern fire perimeter has been minimal, and firefighters are reinforcing control lines. In the Morgan Mountain area, air resources are assisting with suppression efforts, and OSFM task forces continue prepping structures for protection. Power has been restored to the Izee community, and a public meeting is scheduled at the Paulina Community Center on Thursday at 5:00 p.m.
The Rail Ridge fire has led to partial closures of both the Ochoco National Forest and Bureau of Land Management lands. These closures affect all uses of the land. For more details and closure maps, visit the Ochoco National Forest, Malheur National Forest, and BLM websites.
Evacuation Information
Evacuation shelters are available for residents in affected areas. For the latest updates:
- 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.
Looking Ahead
The weather is expected to continue helping firefighting efforts, with cooler conditions forecast through the end of the week. Crews remain focused on containing the fires and protecting homes and property in the affected areas.