Umpqua, Ore. – Firefighters are taking advantage of cooler temperatures, higher humidities, and minimal winds. However, they remain challenged by steep slopes and dry fuels. The Lighthouse and Cougar Creek Fires were active overnight. Oregon Department of Forestry wildland resources, including hand crews and dozers, continued line construction and holding, working to keep these fires in check as much as possible. Numerous resources including heavy equipment engaged along Hubbard Creek Road as the fire backed down to the road in many places. The Tyee Mountain Fire near Umpqua is also in mop-up, although some activity is expected today. Crews made good progress on the Big Tom Fire, including mop-up and plumbing, which is staging of hose lays around the fire perimeter. The Hardscrabble, Blue Hole, and Yellow Point Fires are moving toward patrol status.
Resources on the Complex have grown to over 900 personnel and containment is at 5%. Fifteen aircraft will be working throughout today’s shift pending smoke and weather conditions. The focus continues to be creating and holding line, and being ready for initial attack as needed in the Hubbard Creek area. Because weather conditions are largely favorable, crews aim to expand their gains to date and prepare for possible weather shifts later in the week. Oregon State Fire Marshal task forces will be in the Lighthouse Road area with sprinkler kits, and on Hubbard Road providing protection and removing hazard trees near residences.
Today, temperatures are forecast to reach 70 degrees with winds 5 to 8 miles per hour from the NW. Although fuels are becoming less dry, there is still potential for active fire behavior including uphill runs, torching, and spotting. Areas of heavy smoke are likely along with continued poor air quality.
All evacuation notices issued by the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office remain unchanged. An estimated 183 persons have evacuated. The Red Cross shelter for evacuees is now located at The Way Church of Sutherlin located at 1352 E. Central Ave. in Sutherlin, OR. To shelter livestock, contact Douglas County Fairgrounds at 541-957-7010. Companion pets can be sheltered at Saving Grace Pet Adoption Center in Roseburg. To view the current evacuation information map, go to www.dcso.com/evacuations.