Single Publication

Whisky Creek Size: 3,092 acres | Start Date: July 20 | Cause: Human | Containment: 25%

Total Resources: 113 | Hand Crews: 3 | Engines: 3 | Dozers: 2 | Heavy Equipment: 2 | Helicopters: 1

The Whisky Creek Fire is in steep and rugged terrain within the Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness in the Mt. Hood National Forest. The fire remains within the control lines along the southern and eastern edge. The Eagle Creek Fire scar continues to be a barrier along the western and northern edges of the fire. 

The last 24 hours produced minimal fire behavior as excavators completed the repair work on Forest Road 2820 and are now focusing on Forest Road 2810. Hand crews were successful clearing brush from around multiple communication towers near Mt. Defiance.

Although Hood River County has opened some bike trails, roads and campgrounds, closures do remain in effect for firefighter and public safety. For continuing updates on county closures, please visit: https://www.hoodrivercounty.gov/forestry. 

Weather: Temperatures were cooler yesterday; however, the low-pressure system did not bring the precipitation that was hoped for. We can look forward to continuing cooler temperatures with the possibility of some isolated pop-up showers through Sunday. There is a potential for moisture moving into the early parts of this week.

For smoke forecasts and safety, visit: oregonsmoke.org.

Closures: Area closures remain in the Mt. Hood National Forest, Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, and Hood River County. Closures are put into place for the safety of the public and fire crews; intrusion into a closure area can disrupt fire suppression and repair activities, endanger lives and property, and can result in fines. Closure information is at: https://linktr.ee/whisky_creek.2024. 

Safety: The public plays an important role in preventing the next wildfire; please use caution with all potential ignition sources. For prevention tips see: https://keeporegongreen.org. The Temporary Flight Restriction remains in effect for the Whisky Fire: https://tinyurl.com/2s49yrj4. Fire restrictions are in place on the Mt. Hood National Forest: https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/mthood/fire.