Central Oregon – This afternoon firefighters responded to five new fire starts primarily south of Lake Billy Chinook. All five incidents were lightning caused. Incident #774 was a single tree fire while Incidents #770 and #777 were held at a tenth of an acre. Firefighters held Incident #776 at a quarter of an acre.
The largest of the fires, Incident #775 named the Big Canyon Fire, was reported just after 5 p.m. and is currently estimated at approximately eight acres. Six engines, one crew, one dozer, one water tender and other ground resources responded. Firefighters on the ground were supported by aerial resources, including two fire bosses, one single engine air tanker, one type-two helicopter and air attack. Four large air tankers were ordered, but were stood down after the fire bosses successfully implemented a water line around the perimeter of the fire.
This evening firefighters are working on securing firelines around the perimeter of the fire. Firefighters will remain on-scene throughout the night. Oregon Department of Forestry is assuming unified command with Lake Chinook Fire and Rescue.
Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department is currently reporting a Level Two: Be Set evacuation order for the Three Rivers area. Visit facebook.com/JeffersonCountyORSheriff for current evacuation information.
For current wildland fire information, the public can visit centraloregonfire.org or follow fire information on Twitter @CentralORFire. # # #
