Umpqua, Ore.– The Tyee Ridge Complex showed minimal growth today. This evening firefighters are preparing for thunderstorms and variable weather conditions. Tonight’s focus continues to be mopping up containment lines and preparing contingency lines for future firing operations. Evacuation levels remain unchanged, and roads remain closed in the Hubbard Creek area and residents can return to their homes with proof of residency.
Today, Oregon Department of Forestry crews continued to fight fire more directly with the favorable weather conditions. Along uncontrolled areas of Cougar Creek fire, firefighters are constructing tethered dozer and handline to connect control and contingency lines for future tactical firing operations. The Oregon State Fire Marshal task forces continued to patrol and mop up around structures. Two task forces were demobilized today with the diminished threat to structures, however if anything changes, OSFM resources will be readily available.
Helicopter resources remained busy making bucket drops on the active parts of the fire. This afternoon, aircraft detected a spot fire on the NW portion of the Cougar Creek Fire which was quickly contained. The Tyee Ridge Complex remains active, and spotting remains a possibility. Crews have been quick to identify and extinguish new spot fires.
An afternoon thunderstorm brought strong winds, hail, and brief heavy rains on the SW side of the Cougar Creek Fire. More thunderstorms are forecasted for later this evening that may bring heavy rain and additional lightning. Additional engines will be ready for initial attack if lightning creates any new starts.
To view the current evacuation information map, go to www.dcso.com/evacuations. The Red Cross shelter closed today at 12 PM. To shelter livestock, contact Douglas County Animal Control at 541-440-4471. Companion pets can be sheltered at Saving Grace Pet Adoption Center in Roseburg.