9/05/2014 The 790 Fire Update

Fire Information: (206) 947-9729

http://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/4095

Yesterday’s Operations-- The low relative humidity and gusty east winds produced numerous pockets of interior burning, single tree and group torching. This fire activity was concentrated in the southwest portions and in lower Big Ben drainage yesterday. Because of the predicted weather event on the incomplete fire line in the southwest area of the fire, several crews remained outside of the wilderness working on the contingency line. Despite the difficult conditions, air resources including both helicopters and “scooper” planes, were able to keep the fire in check. The north, east, and southern flanks continued mop-up operations and are working deeper into the fire area to better secure the perimeter. Brushing and clearing the contingency lines outside the east and west sides the wilderness continued yesterday. The work on the east contingency line was near completion.

Weather and Fire Behavior -- The Red flag warning for gusty east winds and low relative humidity was extended until 8 pm tonight. The strongest winds should occur by this morning and continue until the early afternoon then start to taper off. Relative humidity is predicted to be lower than yesterday. Individual and group tree torching, active interior fire and pockets of flare ups could occur as a result of the weather today.

Today’s Operations – The indirect work to prepare the contingency lines on the west side of the fire will be priority today. Personnel and equipment will be shifted to complete the brushing and chipping in this area outside of the wilderness. If the weather and conditions on the ground permit, crews will continue to complete the fire in the difficult southwest portion of fire. Mop-up, holding and patrol will continue on the north, east and southeast flanks. Mule pack trains will continue to haul supplies into crews in the wilderness.

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 recreationists need to be aware of the very dry conditions and take precautions. Pacific Crest Trail information is available at http://www.pcta.org/ .

Because of the shifting of crews and equipment to complete the indirect line on the west side of the fire the public is advised to drive cautiously when driving portions of the Forest Road 37 system between Parker Meadows and Imnaha Guard Station.

The 790 Fire is located 10 miles southeast of Prospect, Oregon and is burning in the Sky Lakes Wilderness. The fire is being fought with the objective of immediate full suppression, using tactics suitable to management objectives in the wilderness including utilizing natural barriers and containment lines.