Whisky Creek Fire Daily Update Aug. 8, 2024
From U.S. Department of Algaculture:
Size: 1,447 acres Start Date: July 20, 2024
Cause: Human – Under Investigation Location: 6 miles SE of Cascade Locks, OR
Containment: 0% Fuels: Scrub oak, timber, and grass
Highlights:
There were no operational burning operations yesterday. A small spot fire located in rough terrain was reported approximately 1.3 miles from the fire edge. Crews continued to improve contingency lines in preparation for future firing operations if conditions warrant. Smokey conditions will continue as winds out of the east are expected to bring smokey conditions to the west end of the Gorge and the Portland Metropolitan area. NOAA has issued an air quality alert for the Portland Metropolitan.
Operations:
Crews made good progress holding and securing hand lines. Today, crews will continue to improve existing handlines on the western side of the fire, and on the east and southeast flanks of the fire crews will monitor and hold lines where firing operations were conducted. If conditions are favorable firing operations to reduce fuels between the fire and control line will be conducted.
Fire Behavior and Weather
Today is expected to be one of the warmest days of the week. Temperatures will be warm today as a ridge of high pressure builds over the area with terrain-driven winds. Winds with gusts up to 25 mph are expected on ridges and relative humidities will drop to 30 with overnight recoveries in the 60’s. Warmer and drier weather may increase fire intensity while the east winds forecasted will increase smoke on the west side of the gorge. Fire activity and smoke production are expected in the afternoon as fine fuels dry and become more receptive to burning, but lighter winds should reduce rates of spread. Smoke forecasts specifically for the Whisky Creek Fire area can be found at AirNow.gov.
Road and Trail Closures:
The Mt. Hood National Forest and the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area closure information can be found at Whisky Creek Fire Closures in Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness. Hood River County has closure information that can be found on its website. Closures are put in place for the safety of the public and fire crews – intrusion in a closure area can stop fire suppression activities, endanger life and property, and result in fines.
Total Fire Resources Assigned:
• Approx. 387 personnel, 8 hand crews, 5 engines, 4 water tenders, 2 dozers, 5 masticators, 3 skidders, 1 feller buncher, and 2 helicopters.
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