9/2/2020 Sweet Creek MP2 Fire Update

 Firefighters had another successful night on the Sweet Creek Milepost 2 Fire. Hand crews, engines, and water tenders continued to strengthen lines around the fire, which is now estimated to be 15% contained. They also continued putting in hose lays to bring more water to the fire. Some concern remains about fire line holding at the bottom of steep slopes where rolling debris could spread fire. Day crews will assess and strengthen these lines today. They will also continue mop up operations around the fire’s perimeter. Predicted high temperatures, low relative humidity, and winds remain a concern, but air resources are available to cool hot spots and quickly address any spot fires.

Fire managers have adjusted their estimate of the fire’s size down to 382 acres. Steep terrain, smoky conditions, and dense vegetation have made it extremely difficult to accurately map the fire. Additionally, air resources have not been available to provide nighttime infrared overflights. The acreage may be adjusted as better information becomes available.

At this morning’s briefing, Incident Commander Joe Hessel thanked crews for their hard work and reminded them to maintain the highest degree of safety. Despite challenging terrain and difficult driving conditions, there have been no injuries reported on the fire.

A virtual community meeting is planned for 7 pm tonight. The meeting will include an update on the fire’s status and an opportunity to ask questions of fire managers. The meeting will be livestreamed on the incident’s Facebook page @sweetcreekmp2fire.

As the Labor Day weekend approaches, travelers should be aware of heavy fire traffic in and around Mapleton. Highway 126 remains open, but some local roads are closed. Temperatures are also predicted to remain high with low relative humidity. Fuel moistures in western Oregon are at historic lows. Fire danger remains extreme across most of the state. Everyone is encouraged to follow current fire season restrictions to prevent human caused fires.

Evacuations remain in place on Hadsall Creek (Level 3: GO!), Sweet Creek Rd (Level 2: Be Set!) and Bernhardt Creek Rd and Duncan Island Road (Level 1: Be Ready!). For more information on evacuations please visit: https://www.lanecounty.org/news/sweetcreekfires.

The Red Cross is providing accommodations for those affected by the fire. To make emergency arrangements call 888-680-1455.