UMPQUA, Ore. – Today, a task force of engines continued to hold and improve the firelines around homes along Hubbard Creek Road. On the Cougar Creek Fire, firefighters worked to secured dozer lines, tenders pumped water for mop up, and an infrared drone mapped potential hotspots near structures. Helicopters added retardant to pretreat firelines for future tactical firing operations.
Tonight, weather will provide cooler temperatures with clear visibility. Firefighters will focus on strengthening and securing lines, looking for opportunities to go more direct. Additional resources were moved to Lighthouse Fire to support mop up. Crews have 33 miles of fireline on the Cougar Creek Fire to mop up, mitigate hazard trees, and prepare for future tactical operations. Currently, the fire is creeping and smoldering. Afternoon warming may cause some flare ups or larger fuels being consumed.
Tomorrow, the potential for tactical firing operations exists in the afternoon. New smoke near the Cougar Creek Fire could be a result of conducting tactical firing. Structure protection remains a priority as Oregon Department of Forestry has allocated additional resources in the Hubbard Creek Road area to protect residences and outbuildings. Initial attack resources will be available for any new starts occurring in the area.
To view the current evacuation information map, go to www.dcso.com/evacuations. 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.