Single Publication

Northwest Team 12

Whisky Creek, Sandstone and Blister Creek Fires

Sept. 9, 2024

Fire Information: (541) 208-1743, 8 AM - 8 PM

For links to incident information: https://linktr.ee/whisky_creek.2024

Whisky Creek Size: 2,935 acres | Start Date: July 20 | Cause: Human | Containment: 25%

Sandstone Size: 702 acres | Start Date: August 5 | Cause: Lightning | Containment 75%

Total Resources: 306 | Hand Crews: 4 | Engines: 7 | Dozers: 2 | Heavy Equipment: 11 | Helicopters: 3

The Whisky Creek, Sandstone, and Blister Creek Fires are in steep and rugged terrain on the Mt. Hood National Forest where rolling debris and fire-weakened trees challenge firefighting efforts. Firefighting resources from these fires remain available to assist with new fire starts as needed.

Whisky Creek: The fire was most active near the headwaters of Herman Creek and there was some fire growth on the southwest flank yesterday. A small spot fire is smoldering below the Benson Plateau, but it does not appear to be moving or growing. Firefighters removed structure protection wrap from buildings and signs where there is no longer threat from fire. Fire managers used a reconnaissance flight to scout the north end of the fire for secondary fireline locations. Large and medium helicopters assigned to the incident continue to support the Williams Mine Fire in Washington, dropping approximately 38,000 gallons of water on that fire yesterday.

Crews will continue to patrol and monitor the fire both aerially and from the ground. Fire managers are working on a contingency firing plan that could be implemented, if needed in the future. Today firefighters are connecting the last piece to complete an extensive hose lay northeast of Wahtum Lake. This hose lay will be fully charged and tested to ensure it is ready if needed. Dozers and excavators will continue to repair dozer lines and road grading will continue on Forest Service Road (FSR) 2810. 

Sandstone and Blister Creek: Isolated heat signatures persist on infrared mapping of the Sandstone and Blister Creek fires, but no smoke is visible. Heavy equipment completed dozer line repairs south of the fires. Fire suppression repair work continues as excavators work on FSRs 7015 and 6320. 

Weather: Cooler and moist conditions are on the way with rain in the forecast for Tuesday night through Wednesday. Air quality still remains impacted by numerous large fires across central and southern Oregon. For smoke forecasts and safety, visit: oregonsmoke.org.

Closures: Area closures will 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.