8/31/2014 - 790 Fire Update

Fire Information: (206) 947-9729

 

The 790 Fire is being fought with the objective of immediate full suppression, using tactics suitable to management objectives in the Sky Lakes Wilderness including utilizing natural barriers and containment lines. 

Location-The 790 Fire is located 10 miles southeast of Prospect, Oregon and is burning in the Sky Lakes Wilderness.
 

Yesterday’s Operations - Helicopters supported firefighters in the wilderness by dropping water on hotspots and supplying eight spike camps. Pack strings of mules were used to deliver supplies to firefighters in the wilderness area. Firefighters continued extending a hose network across the northern and southern flanks and building fireline directly against the fire’s edge. Helicopter rappel crews were added to the western flank and constructed a helicopter landing area to bring in additional crews and equipment. Firefighters strengthened lines on the east flank and “mopped up”—applying water to the burned area next to the fireline to extinguish all heat. Clearing of material continued on indirect contingency lines in roaded areas outside the Wilderness on the east and west sides. 

Weather and Fire Behavior – Firefighters expect drier air today with winds from the northwest to north on ridges. An inversion is likely to build over the fire today. Very dry fuels could contribute to active fire spread with group tree torching and short-range spotting. 

Today’s Operations – Firefighters will continue direct suppression and mop-up in the wilderness using natural fuel breaks such as rock outcrops and building fireline where possible. Indirect tactics will be used outside of the wilderness including continued clearing and prepping existing roads to be used as containment lines, should they be needed. 

Closures - The Pacific Crest Trail remains closed from the south boundary of Crater Lake National Park south to Highway 140. In addition, other trails near the fire area are closed within the Sky Lakes Wilderness. An area closure remains in effect around the fire. These closures are for both firefighter and public safety. Hunters and recreationalists need to be aware of the very dry conditions and take precautions on this busy Labor Day weekend. Current restrictions and closure information is located at: http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/rogue-siskiyou/notices/?cid=STELPRD3814604. 

Pacific Crest Trail information is available at http://www.pcta.org/. 

The public is advised to drive cautiously when traveling near fire operations during this busy holiday weekend.