Acres: 5,093 acres | Start Date: August 4, 2024 | Cause: Lightning | Fuels: Timber, Understory, Grass | Containment: 0% | Resources: 222
Firefighters continue to do an incredible job working to contain the fire and protect structure.
Highlight: Hot, dry, and windy conditions have created challenges for fire personnel as they work to contain the fire. Monday afternoon and evening firefighters saw significant fire growth to the east of Elk Drive and west of Dry Canyon. The public is encouraged to not call non-emergency 9-1-1 for updates or reports, but instead call Elk Lane Fire information at (458) 206-1745.
Overview: The Elk Lane Fire was initially reported August 4th at 7:30pm and was burning approximately seven miles northwest of Madras, OR. Overnight an infrared flight showed the fire has grown to approximately 5,093 acres. A Central Oregon Type 3 Team assumed command of the fire at 10:30am on August 5th. Following the Emergency Conflagration Act being invoked, the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s (OSFM) Red Incident Management Team along with eight structural task forces mobilized. The Central Oregon Type 3 Team and OSFM Red Team are managing the fire under unified command.
Fire Activity: The fire has burned mostly within the vicinity of Belmont and Elk Drives, and into the Deschutes River and Dry Canyons. The fire remains on the east side of the river. Crews are working hard throughout the day and night to maintain containment lines along Belmont Drive while taking action against any growth in the Deschutes River Canyon. The fire was active on the east side of the fire and is currently burning within Dry Canyon. Structures remain threatened and evacuation notices are in place.
Weather: Hot temperatures (high 80s to above 90), low humidity values (teens to single digits) and light winds are forecasted to continue for the area through the week. Afternoon winds are predicted out of the northeast.
Evacuations: For the most up to date evacuation information in Jefferson County visit, https://tinyurl.com/mte4e75m or the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Facebook Page at: https://www.facebook.com/JeffersonCountyORSheriff/.
The Madras High School is a temporary evacuation site, and the Red Cross is on scene. Evacuated animals can be taken to the Jefferson County Fairgrounds.
Importance of Fire Prevention/Fire Restrictions: All public lands in Central Oregon, are in Public Use (Fire) Restrictions. All open flames, including woodstoves and charcoal briquette fires are prohibited. In times of high fire danger, it is crucial for everyone to follow fire prevention measures to avoid additional strain on overburdened resources. The public’s cooperation in adhering to fire bans and restrictions is vital to prevent new fires from starting and to help our firefighters focus on containing the existing fires. Learn more at https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/ochoco/alerts-notices/?aid=89068.
Fire Information: (458) 206-1745 from 8 A.M. to 8 P.M
For the current air quality in your area visit, https://www.airnow.gov/
Visit the official source for wildfire information in Central Oregon at centraloregonfire.org for wildfire updates or follow fire information on X/Twitter @CentralORfire. Call 9-1-1 to report a wildfire.
