8/8/16 Rail Fire Update

NEWS FROM THE FIRELINE:    Yesterday morning thunderstorms impacted the fire area.  Winds pushed down from the cells as they dissipated in the early afternoon.  These winds led to 442 new acres of fire growth.  The main carrier of the fire continues to be beetle killed fuels.  Divisional assignments have been established today to improve existing fire lines and to construct new fire line. Mop-up operations will begin in areas where fire spread is not anticipated to grow any further.  Local officials are pleased with the placement of newly constructed fire line in regards to the protection of natural and significant cultural resources.  Fire managers are expecting the fire to grow at a slow to moderate rate for several days.  Public and firefighter safety along with the protection of private lands continue to be top priorities.

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: 10,482 acres

LOCATION:  Approximately 10 miles southwest of Unity, Oregon

  

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

WEATHER:  Breezy northwest winds are anticipated to impact the fire area.  Winds speeds will be 10 to 15 with gusts up to 25 mph.  RH values will be 20 to 30 percent.  Temperatures will increase slightly toady from yesterday.  The high temperature is predicted to be near 80 degrees.  The main factor in the fire behavior will be the winds tomorrow. 

PERSONNEL & RESOURCES: 740 people, 24 crews, 10 dozers, 29 engines, 19 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