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The Goat Rocks Fire was generally quiet yesterday, still affected by showers and high humidity earlier this week. As the inversion lifted and temperatures rose, the fire became more active and began to creep through fuels. Most spread was on slopes southeast of Forest Road 4612 and in upper Coal Creek drainage.

Yesterday, firefighters completed the hazard tree cutting along Forest Road 4612 and continued to chip woody debris along Forest Road 46. One of the “heavy” helicopters dropped water on residual heat in Coal Creek drainage toward US 12. The Rogue River Interagency Hotshot Crew evaluated historic structures at Packwood Lake for protection needs.

Today will be the start of a warming and drying trend with winds generally from the east. High temperatures are expected to be near 80 degrees with relative humidity dropping to 35%. These conditions will favor an increase in fire activity. The dry weather is expected to last into next week.

Today, winds are forecast up to 20 mph on ridgetops, with gusty winds expected most other places. The Incident Meteorologist will be watching closely to see how complex topography on and near the fire changes the wind. The east wind may be channeled along US 12 and down the Cowlitz River valley. Much of the Goat Rocks Fire may be sheltered from east wind by Beargrass Butte and other ridges. West winds may also push up the Cowlitz valley, creating battling winds and eddies on the west side of the fire. Firefighters will be monitoring shifts in the wind, watching how they impact the fire.

Most firefighters will be working in the vicinity of Coal Creek, where the fire poses the greatest threat to the Timberline and Goat Rocks communities. Some personnel and equipment will continue hazard tree cutting and chipping operations on Forest Road 46, and a woodchipper is expected to move to the Packwood Lake area. Hoses, structure wrap, and other protective materials will also be transported to Packwood Lake.

Firefighters continue to patrol the Timberline and Goat Rocks communities, and around the historic structures at Packwood Lake.

With no rain in the forecast and the ongoing warmer weather, fire managers are maintaining firefighting capabilities on Goat Rocks Fire. Fresh crews, engines, and other personnel are being brought in to replace resources that are reaching the end of their assignments. Additional resources can be ordered if needed to manage the fire.

Forest Closures: For information on current road and trail closures, you can go to this link:  https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd1060181.pdf