Single Publication

Fire Size: 10,817 acres
Initial Start: 8/18/2023 at 1600 pm
Location: Approximately 4 miles northeast of Elk, WA.
Cause: Under Investigation
Containment: 83%
Resources Committed: 28 Engines, 6 Crews, 1 Bulldozer, 5 Water Tenders, 1 Skidgen
Personnel: 304
Damage Assessment: 126 primary homes and 258 outbuildings destroyed.
Road Closures: None

Elk, WA, - Current Situation: The Type 3 Northeast WA Incident Management Team (IMT) 3 is in command of the Oregon Fire. The fire remains in full suppression strategy and is expected to transition to patrol status for most of the fires area early next week. The fire continues to remain within the current footprint with no further growth.

Today’s activities: The recent rain over the fire area has made some portions of the fire difficult to access due to road conditions. Firefighters will continue to mop-up and patrol the fire perimeter and interior on the north, south, and west flanks. On the east flank, firefighters continue their efforts in improving containment lines and mopping-up with the use of engines, hand crews, and a skidgen to support the operation. Air assets are available upon request out of Deer Park and other nearby areas if needed.

Disaster assistance: The Disaster Assistance Center located at the Spokane Falls Community College, Building 9, 3305 W. Whistalks Way, Spokane, WA 99224 - phone: (509) 998-2750, has been providing information and resources to people impacted by the Gray Road and Oregon Road wildfires since August 25, 2023, and is scheduled to close this Friday, September 1, 2023, at 6 p.m. With the Disaster Assistance Center closing, people affected by the wildfires can contact the represented organizations directly. Please visit Spokane County Emergency Management website for the contact information for the agencies and organizations.

Evacuations: All evacuations throughout the entire fire area have been rescinded. An evacuation center for those in need remains open through the Red Cross until there is no further need at Riverside High School 4120 E. Deer Park Milan Rd, Chattaroy, WA 99003.

Weather: Gusty winds will be likely again on Thursday as the weather system that brought thunderstorms and rain over the fire moves out of the area. Winds are expected to taper off in the evening. Mostly cloudy skies and elevated relative humidity can be expected throughout the day.

Smoke Outlook: Washington State Department of Ecology has up to date air quality information at: enviwa.ecology.wa.gov/home/map.

For fire information contact the Public Information Officer at 509-508-3323 or email 2023.oregon@firenet.gov