07/13/2015 Mt. Adams Complex Fire Update

Mt. Adams Complex

Canyon and 7 Lakes Fires controlled

Riley and Horseshoe still have heat

Trout Lake, Wash., -- Firefighters evaluated their fire suppression success using infrared (heat) detection devices at the Horseshoe, Canyon and 7 Lakes fires yesterday to find and extinguish hot spots.

An infrared flight last night showed no heat remaining in Canyon. 7 Lakes was obscured by clouds, but hand-held “palm IR” infrared evaluation on the ground indicated no heat sources. These fires will convert to patrol status.

Heat was detected in the Horseshoe and Riley Fires. Crews will use palm IR equipment to evaluate the perimeter and extinguish remaining heat sources at Horseshoe today.

Several remaining heat sources are associated with the spike camp being used by approximately 70 firefighters to efficiently access their work. Temperatures have been dropping into the mid-40s.

Three type 1 Hotshot crews are working to mop up the Riley perimeter. The remaining heat is scattered through the northern portion of this fire.

The Spiral Fire was detected yesterday afternoon burning among lava beds west of the Mt Adams Complex. One crew and a helicopter from the Complex assisted with initial attack.

Work continues today to suppress the fire. This site is much drier than the higher elevation fires, closer to Mt Adams.

The weather on Horseshoe and Riley will be cool and cloudy today with temperatures in the 50s, winds from the northwest, and a chance of showers today. A drying trend is expected to begin tomorrow.

The fires are now 63% contained and crews are being demobilized from the Mt. Adams Complex as objectives are being met.

Quick Facts:

Fire Size:

Horseshoe 340 acres

Riley 63 acres

7 Lakes 0.1 acre

Canyon 0.1 acre

Total COMPLEX Size: 403.2 acres

Location: West flank of Mt. Adams, Gifford Pinchot National Forest