Rail Fire Update- Aug. 4, 2016

Thursday, August 4, 2016 @ 9AM

The Rail Fire started Sunday afternoon, July 31, approximately ten miles southwest of Unity, Oregon. Northwest Incident Management Team Twelve (NWIMT#12) assumed command of the fire at 6:00 a.m. Monday, August 1.

NEWS FROM THE FIRELINE: Firefighters made significant progress Wednesday when the break in the weather provided conditions conducive to preparing and beginning burnout operations. Today crews continue to build contingency lines, as well as conducting burnout operations. As a result, expect increased visible smoke today.

The Level 2 evacuation notice issued by Baker County Sheriff’s Department Tuesday evening remains in effect.

PUBLIC INFORMATION FORUM FRIDAY at 5:00 p.m.
The Incident Management Team will host a Public Information Forum using a call-in Conference Line in order to reach folks across a broad geographic area. The Team will share information during the Call and then address questions via e-mail afterwards. To submit questions before or after the Call, log on to RAILWILDFIRE@gmail.com. The Conference Line number is: 1-888-844-9904; Access Code: 2651088#

CONTAINMENT: 5%

SIZE: 6,543 acres.

LOCATION: Approximately 10 miles southwest of Unity, Oregon.

VEGETATION TYPE AND TERRAIN: Rangeland, grass, and timber in a mix of moderate and steep terrain.

WEATHER: High temperatures in the upper 80s, 12-15% humidity, with terrain-driven winds of 4-8 mph on lower/mid-slopes and variable 2-6 mph winds on the upper slopes/ridges. There is a chance of afternoon/evening thunderstorms with lightning on Friday.

PERSONNEL & RESOURCES: 525 people (18 crews), 6 dozers, 27 engines, 10 water tenders and 6 helicopters are assigned to the fire.

AGENCIES & COOPERATORS INVOLVED: Forest Service, Oregon Department of Forestry, Baker County Sheriff’s Department and Emergency Services and local residents.

Mary Bean, Incident Information Officer
Incident Information Office Phone: (541) 446-3592