Single Publication

Willamette Complex North Daily Update

2024.WillametteComplex.North@firenet.gov

Information line: 541-208-1262, 8 am to 8 pm
Facebook: 

https://facebook.com/OreFireInformation2024;

https://www.facebook.com/PyramidFireInfo2024/

Saturday, September 7, 2024

Message: The red flag warning has been extended through 8pm tonight. Please check the National Weather Service for more information.

Suppression Objectives: The Ore Fire and the Pyramid Fire remain under a full suppression strategy to protect values at risk, including the Middle Santiam Wilderness, HJ Andrews Experimental Forest, and private timberlands. Firefighters are building direct fire line where possible, and strategic indirect contingency line as needed. 

Current Situation: Lightning observed Friday evening as isolated showers covered the area. Regional smoke from fires burning in Eastern and Southern Oregon are settling in the McKenzie River drainage. Firefighters look to improve existing fire lines both direct and contingency. This will involve securing, patrolling, and mopping up. Aviation resources will be available to respond in the event of any new starts from potential holdovers from the previous evening lightning. 

Ore Fire: 7 miles Northeast of Blue River, 3,337 acres, 42% contained, 614 total personnel, human caused.  Firefighters are making progress in the Ore Creek drainage. With a red flag warning, firefighters have prepared for initial attack responses, as the current fire weather pattern persists. Hauling of activity fuels will continue, and heavy equipment use is paused until weather conditions improve. Firing operations for the purpose of securing the fire line are planned today.

Pyramid Fire: East of Middle Santiam Wilderness, 1,312 Acres, 98% contained, 229 total personnel, lightning caused. Crews and heavy equipment will continue the removal of activity fuels from fire lines and keep improving contingency lines. With the chance of increased fire behavior due to the extreme heat and low humidity levels, firefighters will cautiously work to improve lines. 

Safety: In addition to the red flag warning and heat advisory, the public should visit Oregon Trip Check for road conditions along Highway 126. There is increased traffic with firefighters, hunting season, starting and the beginning of the weekend. Please use caution and defensive driving to prevent vehicular accidents.   https://www.tripcheck.com/Pages/Road-Conditions?mainNav=RoadConditions&curRegion=0

Closures & Fire Restrictions:  Willamette National Forest closures for all fires can be found at:  https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/willamette/alerts-notices

Everyone is reminded to stay out of all fire closures for firefighter and general safety. Violations of these prohibitions are punishable by a fine of up to $5,000. All campfires, charcoal fires, pellet fires, or any other open fires are prohibited, including in developed campgrounds and wilderness areas. Pressurized liquid or gas stoves, lanterns, and heaters that can be switched on and off are allowed. Please see Forest Order 06-18-00-24-27 for additional information. https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd1047207.pdf