Single Publication

                    Whisky Creek Size: 2,084 acres | Reported Date: July 20 | Cause: Human, Under Investigation | Containment: 24%
Sandstone Size: 702 acres | Reported Date: August 5 | Cause: Lightning | Containment: 74%
Total Resources: 550 | Hand Crews: 11 | Engines: 9 | Dozers: 2 | Other Heavy Equipment: 18 | Helicopters: 4

(Odell, Ore.) -- Fire suppression efforts continue on the Whisky Creek Fire, 6 miles southeast of Cascade Locks, Ore. and the Sandstone and Blister Creek Fires, 9 miles southwest of Ripplebrook, Ore. The fires are burning in steep and rugged terrain on the Mt. Hood National Forest where rolling debris and fire-weakened trees challenge firefighting efforts. Firefighter and public safety remain the incident’s top priority. As the holiday weekend approaches, help prevent wildfires and protect our firefighters by engaging in responsible recreation, respecting fire closures and complying with all fire restrictions.

On Friday at 6:00 a.m., command of the incident will transition to Northwest Complex Incident Management Team (NW CIMT) 12. Today, the incoming team will shadow their counterparts in each functional area, including on-the-ground operations, logistics and all other support functions, working closely together to ensure a seamless transition. Incident Commander Steve North and the rest of NW CIMT 10 extend their gratitude to the local residents, business owners and visitors for their unwavering support during this incident. Special thank you to the Mt. Hood National Forest for their partnership and guidance during NW CIMT 10’s time on the Whisky Creek and Sandstone Fires. As NW CIMT 12 assumes command, commitment to the communities and the management of this fire will continue. 

Whisky Creek: Yesterday, after a delay for firefighter safety due to unfavorable weather conditions, the handline on Tomlike Mountain ridge was successfully connected to the fire’s edge, with air resources assisting ground crews on reconnaissance missions. Crews reinforced control and containment lines and continued patrols around the fire. Repair activities continued along roadways. Today, crews will continue improving the completed Tomlike Mountain ridge handline. Mastication, chipping,   road improvements and repairs will proceed as conditions permit.

Sandstone & Blister Creek: Yesterday, crews reinforced containment lines on the Sandstone Fire. Mastication efforts along Forest Road 7015 and grading on Forest Road 7010 continued, with chipping operations nearly complete on Forest Road 4620. Aerial resources conducted reconnaissance missions and targeted bucket drops on the Blister Creek Fire’s uncontained perimeter to the south. Today, firefighters will strengthen containment lines while advancing mastication and grading operations. Crews will continue monitoring the Blister Creek Fire. 

Weather and Fire Behavior: Forecasted easterly winds will persist through the morning, gradually diminishing in the afternoon. Calmer winds are expected over the weekend, but hot and dry conditions and low relative humidity may lead to an increase in fire activity. gt

Closures: The Mt. Hood National Forest, the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area and Hood River County closure information can be found by scanning the QR code or following the link below. Closures are in place for the safety of the public and fire crews. 

Safety: The public plays an important role in preventing the next wildfire; use caution with all ignition sources. For prevention tips visit, https://keeporegongreen.org. Fire restrictions are in place within the Mt. Hood National Forest. More information can be found at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/mthood/fire. A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in place over both fire areas. 

Smoke: Air quality conditions are forecast to be good for both fire areas. For more information on smoke conditions in your area, go to: www.AirNow.gov. 

For further information about the Whisky Creek and Sandstone Fires, see the following resources: 
Email: 2024.whiskycreek@firenet.gov or 2024.sandstone.or@firenet.gov 
Phone: 541-208-1743, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. 
Web: Scan the QR code or go to https://linktr.ee/whisky_creek.2024