8/6/2016 Rail Fire Update

NEWS FROM THE FIRELINE:    Fire activity increased as predicted when gusty winds fanned the interior of the fire, producing four smoke columns late Friday afternoon. Fuels burned within the interior of the fire and winds drove flames south and east. Crews succeeded in holding the line and also controlling spot fires that jumped ahead of the front. Today crews will focus on extending line south to the Amelia Cr. trailhead, as well as reinforcing existing lines and fuel breaks. Smoke will be visible for several days. Despite brief morning showers, weather will remain unstable, with the possibility of thunderstorms and dry lightning. Plans are in place for addressing these conditions and for potential Initial Attack actions, should lightning spark additional fires.

PUBLIC INFORMATION: Public Information Officers will be in the communities of Unity, Prairie City and Baker today to provide fire updates and answer questions.

CONTAINMENT: 10%

SIZE: 10,040 acres

LOCATION:  Approximately 10 miles southwest of Unity, Oregon

  

VEGETATION TYPE AND TERRAIN:  Grass and timber in moderate and steep terrain

WEATHER:  High temperatures in the mid-80s, 17-21% humidity, with winds from the north/northwest of 4-8 mph.  Smoke columns can be expected to form again today. A Red Flag Warning remains in effect through Sunday evening for thunderstorms accompanied by dry lightning.

PERSONNEL & RESOURCES: 616 people, 20 crews, 7 dozers, 27 engines, 13 water tenders and 6 helicopters are assigned to the fire.

AGENCIES & COOPERATORS INVOLVED:   Forest Service, Oregon Department of Forestry, Baker County Sheriff’s Department and Emergency Services and local residents.

Mary Bean, Incident Information Officer

Incident Information Office Phone: (541) 446-3592