Night crews strengthen buffer around fire’s perimeter
Dufur, Ore. – The containment on Larch Creek Fire’s perimeter is increasing as crews worked to grid the area last night, searching for any heat emerging around the fire’s edge. Fire crews are working around the clock to address hot spots. Last night, crews observed juniper tree torching, or the ignition of trees from bottom to top inside the perimeter.
The weather forecast promises challenging conditions for firefighters today and throughout the coming week. Although temperatures will be in the lower 90s today, there is increased optimism to further increase containment before the coming weekend brings more unseasonable critical fire weather.
Mop-up activities are in full swing. Unburned islands within the fire’s footprint will be monitored for burning snags and fire personnel are creating plans to address suppression repair.
The Wasco County Sheriff’s Office lowered some evacuation levels yesterday evening, July 17. There are no longer any Level 3 “go now” evacuation orders.
Pine Hollow Reservoir has reopened to recreation. Evacuation levels will be reviewed again today, July 18. Please continue to check with the Wasco County Sheriff’s Office for updates.Evacuation details are available at: www.facebook.com/WascoCountySheriff
FIRE AT A GLANCE
Estimated Size: 18,432 acres
Containment: 43%
Cause: Human Caused
Estimated Cost: $13,540,000
Total Personnel: 802
Hand Crews: 23
Engines: 39
Water Tenders: 14
Dozers: 9
Helicopters: 10
Incident Command:
Matt Howard, Incident Commander
Craig Pettinger, Deputy Incident Commander
