Firefighters made significant progress on the Shoe Fly Fire overnight, holding the fireline and keeping the blaze within its existing footprint. Despite challenges on Saturday, crews were able to improve containment, now estimated at 19%, as the fire has grown to 26,409 acres.
On the western side, west of Peggy Butte, crews worked along the fire’s edge to strengthen firelines. Day shift crews will complete these efforts today, with spotfires in the area carefully checked for remaining heat.
Fire operations are transitioning into mop-up, the detailed process of gridding through the fire’s perimeter to ensure no heat sources remain. This work reduces the chance of flare-ups that could cross containment lines. In lighter fuels like grass, mop-up moves more quickly, but areas with deeper duff, needle cast, or unburned vegetation will take more time to secure.
A Fire Weather Warning is in effect for the fire area due to the potential for thunderstorms with abundant lightning. These storms could bring gusty, erratic winds and increase the likelihood of new fire starts. Firefighters from the Shoe Fly Fire remain ready to assist local crews with suppression efforts if needed.
Overnight, an Oregon State Fire Marshal structural task force worked near homes and structures, clearing fuels and monitoring fire conditions. Today, two task forces will continue preparing areas near structures and patrolling homes within the fire area as a precaution.
Evacuation notices for residents near the fire are under continuous evaluation by the Wheeler County Sheriff, Wheeler County Fire Defense Board Chief, and Team 1 Operations personnel. For current evacuation information, visit: https://tinyurl.com/RAPTOR-Evacuation-Info.