Weigh Station Fire: August 3, 2016

Great strides were made in the containment of the 688 acre Weigh Station Fire yesterday.  The cold front passage that was forecasted for the area caused an increase in winds and a drop in relative humidity, however the fire lines held and no additional fire growth was experienced.  The fire is now 55% contained.

All evacuation notices have been lifted for the area.  Residents and travelers should be aware that smoke may still be seen within the fire perimeter as crews continue to mop-up.  Fire crews will remain on the scene for the next few days to ensure that hotspots near the line are extinguished.  Some resources are being demobilized for reassignment to assist in other fires in the region. 

Oregon Highway 30 near the Poverty Flats exit will be reopened today.  Travelers on that road can expect some fire equipment to remain in the area and should proceed with caution.  Check www.tripcheck.com for up to date information regarding travel conditions in Oregon.

The weather forecast for the region is calling for slightly warmer temperatures and light winds through Thursday.  There is a chance of thunderstorms on Friday, Saturday and potentially Sunday.  These storms will likely be a mix of wet and dry storms. 

With the chance of thunderstorms for the region, minimizing human caused fire starts is crucial.  The public is reminded that ODF is currently in Regulated Use Closure in Northeast Oregon and federal lands are currently under public use restrictions.  Current fire restrictions for forestlands in Northeast Oregon can be found at www.bmidc.org

http://bluemountainfireinfo.blogspot.com/ is your spot for current fire information in the Blue Mountains. 

To report a fire, call Blue Mountain Interagency Dispatch at (541)963-7171 or dial 9-1-1. 

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