Weigh Station Fire: 8 p.m. Update

Firefighters had a productive day on the Weigh Station Fire near Meacham, Oregon.  Weather conditions moderated some providing firefighters with the opportunity to work on strengthening fire lines.  Helicopters supported crews on the ground by delivering bucket drops to cool hotspots along the lines and support burning operations to remove unburnt islands of fuel.  Due to more accurate mapping, the reported fire size has decreased and is approximately 500 acres.  The fire is 25% contained.

Meacham has been removed from any evacuation notice.  The lands north and south of Interstate 84 from the Weigh Station on Deadman Pass to Emigrant Springs State Park are currently at a Level 2 “SET”.  Residents seeking shelter assistance from American Red Cross can call the Red Cross Dispatch phone at (888) 680-1455.

After nearly 24 hours of closure, the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) has opened the freeway to all traffic.  Travelers are advised that firefighting activity continues directly adjacent to the freeway and to use caution when traveling in the fire area.  Check www.tripcheck.com for up to date information regarding travel conditions in Oregon.

Ongoing efforts to protect cultural resources in the area have been coordinated with Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR). 

This week’s weather forecast calls for slightly cooler temperatures and the potential for low relative humidity.  High winds are forecast across the region on Tuesday.  Firefighters will continue to work over the next two days on strengthening control lines in preparation for the possibility of that event. 

 The public is reminded that ODF is currently in Regulated Use Closure in Northeast Oregon.  Fire managers recommend that recreationists and travelers check the fire regulations before heading out to enjoy the forest. 

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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Photo Courtesy of Jana Peterson (ODF)