Firefighters have made significant progress, with most of the southern fireline now contained. Crews will mop up this area by extinguishing any remaining hot spots, turning over smoldering debris, and stirring with water.
On the northeast side, Thursday night’s successful firing operations in the grass are helping secure fire lines. Because of inaccessible areas and steep terrain, firing operations remain the safest and most effective strategy to remove fuels and prevent the spread of the fire. On Friday, firefighters will continue these firing operations along the northern edge, utilizing the dozer line, the Columbia River Highway State Trail, and rocky areas, tying it in with the fire already reaching the trail, securing it from east to west.
Strategic firing operations are strengthening this line, which will increase smoke and may make flames visible. Once completed, this will reduce fuel and lower the risk of fire spread.
Because of the decreased threat to homes and infrastructure near the fire, OSFM resources were demobilized. The OSFM’s structural firefighters want to thank our wildland partners and communities for their help and support. Wildland crews remain on the fire.
QUICK FACTS
14% contained
704 acres
5 miles west & southwest of Mosier
Burning in brush, timber, and grass
The fire shows low to moderate activity with creeping, smoldering, and backing downslope toward containment lines. Mid-day, more smoke is expected in the area from the firing operations.
Slight weather changes are anticipated, with temperatures in the upper 70s, lower relative humidity, and lighter winds. Fuels remain critically dry and receptive to burning.
Evacuations
Existing levels 3, 2, and 1 evacuations on the east side remain in place. For updated information please follow https://www.facebook.com/WascoCountySheriff. The evacuation preparedness level remains at Level 1 on the west; please follow https://www.facebook.com/hrcso. The Red Cross Center is available at the Hood River Middle School for anyone needing a place to go.
Fire Information: 541-903-2069 daily from 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Email: 2024.microwavetower@firenet.gov
Microwave Fire Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/2024MicrowaveTowerFire/
InciWeb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/or954s-microwave-tower