News Release from Oregon Dept. of Forestry – Posted on FlashAlert: August 21st, 2015 9:53 PM
Willamina Creek Fire Update
Oregon Department of Forestry Team
West Oregon District – Dallas Unit
Fire Information number: (503) 934-8153
August 21, 2015
9:00 pm
Current Situation:
Yesterday’s winds pushed the fire beyond the containment line in the southeast corner of the fire. Today, crews put concerted effort into strengthening lines around that area. Winds increased again this afternoon which resulted in new spot fires outside of the completed line on the north side of the fire. Fire managers ordered an additional Type 2 helicopter and three SEATs (Single Engine Air Tankers) for the afternoon to provide assistance in extinguishing the new spot fires. Tonight’s focus will be on reinforcing the line around the spots.
Expected weather for tomorrow is going to test the completed lines with higher temperatures, low humidity and a return of an off-shore wind. Tomorrow’s focus will be on holding the completed lines through this period of challenging weather conditions. Fire managers continue to be hopeful about seeing containment numbers
The Willamina Creek fire started at approximately 5:00 pm on August 19 on land protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry. The fire is currently estimated to be about 212 acres and is burning in heavy fuels on BLM and private timberland. A majority of the current fireline was more accurately mapped today using GPS technology which is helping to provide more accurate acreage estimates. This work will continue as conditions change which may lead to higher acreage numbers in the coming days.
Weather and Fire Behavior:
Tonight’s weather is forecasted to be cool with higher humidity. Temperatures are expected to be between 52 and 55 degrees with 88-92% humidity. Tomorrow, hot and dry conditions with northeast winds are expected.
Fire Statistics
Location: approx. 9 miles north of Willamina, OR
Percent contained: 15%
Size: 212 acres (estimated)
Cause: under investigation
Start Date: 8/19/15
Wildland resources assigned to the fire include (day and night shifts): 12 hand crews, 11 engines, 4 dozers, 12 water tenders, and overhead personnel.
Air resources: 1 Type 2 helicopter
Total personnel: 226
Evacuations and closures:
Four cabins along East Creek Road remain under a Level 3 evacuation. Willamina Creek Road and East Creek Road are closed north of the junction with Coast Creek Road.
Places to get information:
ODF Fire Blog – wildfireoregondeptofforestry.blogspot.com/
Facebook – www.facebook.com/oregondepartmentofforestry
Twitter – twitter.com/ORDeptForestry
