Microwave Tower Fire 89% contained, mapping shows no growth
Photo courtesy the Microwave Tower Fire Facebook page
Microwave Tower Fire Daily Update Aug. 5, 2024
Size: 1,311 acres
Start Date: July 22, 2024
Cause: Undetermined
Location: 5 miles west of Mosier, OR
Containment: 89%
Fuels: Brush, timber, and grass
Highlights:
An afternoon flight was conducted utilizing Infrared, a heat detection system used to determine the extent of heat signatures on the fire. This information allows firefighters to find areas where hot spots are located, and additional mop-up is needed. The observed fire behavior was minimal with no perimeter growth.
Microwave Tower Fire map - red line shows uncontained line of the fire. Click the image to enlarge it.
Operations:
Interior pockets of fuel continue to burn. During the day they will produce smoke, and at night can provide a visible glow, noticeable from across the river. Along the steep northern edge, roll-out of hot debris is a concern and sprinkler systems were installed to provide continuous water to reduce hot spots. Day and nighttime crews patrolled the fire perimeter to ensure the lines were secure. Suppression repair is occurring along trails and roads to reduce erosion and return disturbed areas to a more natural state.
Crews will continue suppression repair work and patrolling the fire perimeter for hot spots. Tonight will be the last shift for night patrol. The patrol of the fire will resume in the morning.
Total Fire Resources Assigned:
• Approx. 86 personnel, 2 hand crews, 8 engines, 1 water tenders, 3 dozers, and 1 skidder.
Fire Behavior and Weather:
Moisture from recent rain was limited and vegetation remains dry. An onshore westerly flow will continue with hot temperatures. Drivers are asked to please use caution on Interstate 84 as firefighters are still working in the area. Persistent west winds are dispersing smoke from the Whisky Creek Fire into this area.
Evacuations:
Level 2 and 1 evacuations remain in effect for Wasco County: https://www.facebook.com/WascoCountySheriff
Level 1 evacuations remain in effect for Hood River County: https://www.facebook.com/hrcso
Road and Trail Closures:
For public and firefighter safety, closures are in place for The Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail and for roads in Hood River County. Details of these closures are available on their websites: https://www.hoodrivercounty.gov/closures and https://stateparks.oregon.gov/
To stay informed on the most up-to-date road conditions on Interstate 84, visit https://tripcheck.com/
