THE DALLES, Ore. – Despite breezy afternoon winds Tuesday, Aug. 4, firefighters on the Fir Mountain Fire held the fire within the perimeter and only saw activity from the burning of unburned fuels within the interior. Fire behavior moderated from the last few days and fire resources were able to focus on establishing and reinforcing firelines. Containment for the fire had increased to 30% Tuesday evening. The fire size is 313 acres.
On Tuesday helicopters were used to drop water and cool the spot fires on the eastern flank to allow ground resources to build fireline on the edge of the fire. Heavy equipment is being used to build fireline as possible, while hand crews are being used in the more difficult terrain. Heavy fuels have continued to hamper fireline construction and mop-up activities. On the east flank of the fire firefighters were able to begin construction of hoselays to deliver water to this area of the fire.
Additional resources arrived on the fire Tuesday bringing the total assigned resources to 400.
For public safety road closures are in place for Godberson Road and Fir Mountain Road due to fire suppression activity. Evacuation information for the eastern flank of the fire is available at https://www.facebook.com/WascoCountySheriff.
The fire was first reported Saturday, Aug. 1 and remains under investigation.
ODF’s Central Oregon District continues to serve landowners and the public as an essential service for Oregonians. Please call or email to talk with our staff or schedule an appointment. For additional information on ODF’s Central Oregon District, including contact information and unit offices, please visit www.ODFcentraloregon.com.
This will be the last evening update unless conditions change.
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