The Cram Fire, currently burning 77,163 acres in Central Oregon, is now under the unified leadership of Northwest Complex Incident Management Team 10 and the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s (OSFM) Green Incident Management Team. The fire’s cause remains under investigation. A total of 573 personnel are assigned to the incident.
Northwest Team 10, led by Incident Commander Steve North, officially took command of the incident at 6 a.m. Thursday. The team shadowed the High Desert Type 3 Incident Management Team on Wednesday to ensure a smooth transition and continued coordination with OSFM. The unified command reflects strong interagency cooperation between local, state, and federal agencies committed to protecting lives, property, and natural resources.
Fire activity decreased on the northern edge of the fire along Oregon Route 293, where crews continued mop-up operations and line patrols. In preparation for Thursday’s Red Flag Warning, firefighters prioritized structure protection and aerial suppression efforts in areas where heat remains.
In the southern portion of the fire, crews used heavy equipment to complete and connect sections of fire line. During the night shift, additional engine strike teams focused on securing the line and reinforcing structure protection. Strategic firing operations were carried out successfully to remove unburned fuel east of Hay Creek between NE Old U.S. Highway 97 and the fire’s edge.
Thursday, firefighters are continuing mop-up operations around structures in areas with minimal fire activity. Crews north of East Ashwood Road, with aerial support, are constructing direct fire lines where conditions allow. Fire managers are evaluating terrain and fire behavior to determine safe and effective tactics. Efforts will focus on reinforcing containment lines and connecting incomplete sections as fire behavior remains dynamic.
Weather:
A Red Flag Warning is in effect Thursday from 1-10 p.m. for hot, dry, and windy conditions. Winds will shift from the northwest and may gust up to 25 mph. A cold front is expected over the weekend, bringing cooler temperatures and increased humidity.
Evacuations:
Level 1 (BE READY), Level 2 (BE SET), and Level 3 (GO NOW) evacuation notices remain in place for areas in Jefferson and Wasco counties. Residents should consult official maps for current zones:
- Jefferson County: tinyurl.com/JCSOEvacMap
- Wasco County: tinyurl.com/WascoCountyEvacMap
Air Quality:
Residents can view real-time smoke impacts and forecasts at fire.airnow.gov.
Safety Reminder:
Drivers should use caution in fire zones. Smoke may reduce visibility, and crews with heavy equipment are active along roadways.
Fire Information:
Phone: (541) 216-7206
Email: 2025.cram@firenet.gov
Resources: linktr.ee/cramfire2025