Umatilla National Forest Lightning Fire Update - Aug. 25, 2020

Contact: Darcy Weseman (541) 278-3722

August 25, 2020 – 11:30 a.m.

PENDLETON, Ore. – Firefighters have made substantial progress containing most of the wildfires caused by recent thunderstorms. This will be the final daily update unless conditions change. More fires may be detected throughout the next few days. A red flag warning is in effect across the Forest through tonight for isolated thunderstorms and gusty winds. 

The 130-acre Putnam Springs Fire on the Heppner Ranger District is now 90% contained.  Fire behavior was minimal yesterday and firefighters continued to secure control lines and conduct mop up activities on the fire. Mopping up includes searching for pockets of heat, digging out the heat source, and cooling with water. Numerous resources are being released from the fire today. The fire is transitioning to a Type 4 management organization staffed by Umatilla National Forest local personnel. A hand crew, 1 dozer, 1 skidgine, 2 water tenders and 2 engines will remain on scene to complete mop up activities.

For information on the Meacham Complex, please visit: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7038/

For information on the Rattlesnake Fire, please visit: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7069/

Fire officials want to remind everyone that the current fire danger rating remains at HIGH and Public Use Restrictions involving chainsaw use are in effect. Regulated closures have also been implemented on State and private lands protected by Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF). Similar restrictions may be in effect on State and private lands protected by the Washington Department of Natural Resources (WA-DNR).  

For more information regarding Restrictions, please contact the Umatilla National Forest information hotline at (877) 958-9663.  The latest fire information will be posted on the Blue Mountains Fire Information Blog at http://bluemountainfireinfo.blogspot.com/. 

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