Umatilla National Forest Lightning Fire Update - 8:30 a.m.

LIGHTNING FIRE UPDATE

July 23, 2019 – 8:30 a.m

Firefighters on the Heppner Ranger District continue to make progress on wildfires caused by the recent thunderstorm. A total of six fires were reported yesterday with more fires expected throughout the next few days.

The Bull Fire, located near Bull Prairie Lake, was reported yesterday at 4:39 p.m. and is four acres in size. The fire is burning in a combination of mixed conifer and open pine fuels. Fire behavior yesterday consisted of torching and spotting. A helicopter aided suppression efforts by dropping water and cooling hot spots. Today firefighters will continue to construct and improve control lines and secure the perimeter to reduce the risk of the fire moving outside the perimeter lines. Resources on scene include three Forest Service engines, two Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) engines, and an ODF dozer.

Firefighters were successful yesterday on the Cabin Creek Fire, which is 100% lined. Fire crews from the Heppner Ranger District and an engine from the Oregon Department of Forestry will focus on mop up and securing containment lines today. The fire remains five acres in size and is located about 1.5 miles north of Rocky Flat. 

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