7/13/2024 Oregon State Fire Marshal Larch Creek Fire Update

 Crews taking advantage of calmer winds Saturday on Larch Creek Fire

Fire crews continue to make progress on the Larch Creek Fire in Wasco County near Tygh Valley. Overnight Friday, crews mopped up and patrolled around the north and east sides of the fire where lines were reinforced up to 100 feet deep in some spots. Firefighters built dozer lines up to the Tygh Creek drainage on the southwest of the fire. They also mopped up around homes where the fire was active.

QUICK FACTS
Estimated Size: 14,267 acres
Containment: 3%
Cause: Human Caused
Estimated Cost: $6,200,000
Total Personnel: 787
Hand Crews: 23
Engines: 61
Water Tenders: 16
Dozers: 12
Helicopters: 10

Saturday offers firefighters the opportunity to “tie together” the established dozer line in the southwest corner with hand-built line through the Tygh Creek drainage and solidify these significant gains before gusty winds are expected to return Sunday. A Fire Weather Watch is issued for the east side of the fire beginning on Sunday. Winds continue to drive rapid fire spread. Fuels remain extremely dry and receptive to catching fire. Tall grasses, brush, and dead timber are primed to contribute to active fire behavior as winds increase.

Given the conditions, the public is reminded to be aware and exercise precautions to prevent the start of new fires. Fire restrictions are now in effect on the nearby Mt. Hood National Forest. All campfires and other open fires are prohibited under a forest order, including developed campgrounds. Click here for more information.

A public meeting is set for Saturday at 7 p.m. at South Wasco County High School in Maupin (699 4th St, Maupin, OR). Spanish language interpretation will be available. This meeting is in-person only with no live streaming.

Evacuations remain in effect. Updated evacuation information can be found here.

Photo: Larch Fire moving down a hillside.