Tuesday, July 27, 2021

Elbow Creek Fire Update July 27, 2021 6 p.m.

 Wallowa, OR – The Elbow Creek Fire has burned 22,790 acres and is 38 percent contained. More water tenders are being ordered to assist with mop-up operations. These will arrive through tonight and tomorrow.

The Elbow Creek Drainage continues to be the focus on the fire. Burnout operations on the east side of the creek, that occurred today, are being monitored to make sure lines are secure. Further west, crews are still finding and catching small spot fires.

On the north side of the river, steady development was made on contingency roads, specifically in the northwest corner. Crews will continue to work on the 62 and 6220 roads tomorrow.

A hot spot was discovered and caught on the east branch of Sickfoot Creek on the south side of the Grande Ronde River. Crews also continue to monitor and mop-up the Duckworth Drainage.

In the southwest corner of the fire, hose has been laid around majority of the fire perimeter and crews will work to strengthen fire line and mop up.

Wildland fire investigators remain on the river until tomorrow when they will complete their investigation.

The weather forecast remains relatively unchanged from today moving into tomorrow. Relative humidity will increase to 20-30 percent, with greater recovery overnight. Temperatures will begin to warm again, but conditions will not be as dry. Incident Meteorologist Brent Bower says that there is a good chance for substantial rainfall hitting the area this weekend.

With Chief Joseph Days taking place in Joseph now through Sunday, fire officials are encouraging all visitors to “know before you go”.  While the fire area will not affect the festivities, visitors should be aware of road and forest closures. Also, make sure to be cautious when driving through these small communities.

Be sure to stay up-to-date on Wallowa County Sheriff’s evacuation levels, listed here: www.facebook.com/Wallowa-County-Sheriffs-Office-147212815486187.

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