The Larch Creek Fire burning near the town of Tygh Valley in Wasco County grew to 10,686 acres and is zero percent contained. Overnight Wednesday, the Oregon State Fire Marshal mobilized three additional task forces from Marion, Polk, and Yamhill counties. This brings the total number of task forces mobilized to nine.
Throughout the evening, winds calmed and fire growth slowed. Dozers working through the night made progress putting in control line and engines patrolled near homes in the fire area.
Thursday structure task forces will mop up around homes in the fire area. Firefighters will be putting in hose lays and working with engines and water tenders to strengthen control lines. Dozers and other crews will work on establishing line around the fire footprint on the east side of highway 197. Air resources continue to be available and will be used as needed throughout the day.
The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Team 2 will shadow the Central Oregon Fire Management Service Type 3 team today. Thursday at 6 p.m. The ODF Team 2 and OSFM Green Team will transition into unified command. The OSFM would like to extend a huge thank you to the Central Oregon Type 3 team for their coordination and efforts on this fire.
Temperatures Thursday are expected to be in the low 90s with afternoon winds that should lessen into the evening. The next few days should see temperatures continuing to decrease and less substantial winds in the region. This is a welcome forecast for firefighters.
On Wednesday one firefighter was taken to a local hospital to be treated for heat-related symptoms.
For evacuation information please follow the Wasco County Sheriff’s Office.
A Red Cross shelter is open at Maupin High School. The Sherman County Fairgrounds is open for evacuation of livestock and pets. Hood River Fairgrounds is also open to displaced animals.
Hwy 197 is being closely monitored and may be closed, check Trip Check for updates.