Whisky Creek and Sandstone Fire Update - August 23, 2024
View of the burned area in the Whiskey Creek Fire from Aug. 21. Photo courtesy of the Whiskey Creek Fire page.
From U.S. Department of Algaculture:
Whisky Creek Size: 2,067 acres | Reported Date: July 20 | Cause: Human, Under Investigation | Containment: 24%
Sandstone Size: 702 acres | Reported Date: August 5 | Cause: Lightning | Containment: 29%
Total Resources: 659 | Hand Crews: 14 | Engines: 11 | Dozers: 5 | Other Heavy Equipment: 25 | Helicopters: 4
The Dalles, Ore. Fire suppression efforts continue on the Whisky Creek Fire, 6 miles southeast of Cascade Locks, Ore., and the Sandstone and Blister Creek Fires, 9 miles southwest of Ripplebrook, Ore. The fires are burning in steep and rugged terrain on the Mt. Hood National Forest where rolling debris and fire-weakened trees challenge firefighting efforts.
Firefighters and public safety remain the incident’s top priority. Fire managers are taking advantage of favorable weather conditions to implement plans for more direct fire suppression efforts where possible. As the weekend approaches, it is important to remember that despite the recent rainfall, risk of fire persists. You can aid in the prevention of future wildfires and safeguard our firefighters by engaging in responsible recreation, respecting fire closure areas, and complying with fire restrictions.
Whisky Creek: Yesterday, crews successfully constructed over half a mile of new fireline near Tomlike Mountain, removing hazard trees while coordinating closely with resource advisors. Resource advisors are subject-matter experts, helping firefighters identify and protect natural and cultural features. Clearing of accumulated woody debris progressed along Forest Roads 630 and 650. Today, crews will focus on reinforcing existing containment lines. Options for contingency lines are evaluated daily as additional protection from potential fire spread.
Sandstone & Blister Creek: Yesterday, crews mopped up and patrolled the Sandstone Fire along Thunder Mountain Ridge. Extensive water drops appear to be cooling the otherwise inaccessible fire within the Blister Creek drainage; ground crews will evaluate opportunities for line construction on the uncontained southeastern edge of the Blister Creek Fire once the current weather system has moved through. Today, firefighters will continue improving established containment lines and control features across the fire areas. Chipping, mastication, and road work continue, further strengthening containment efforts.
Weather and Fire Behavior: Conditions will remain cool and cloudy with scattered showers and moderate precipitation through Saturday. While rain may offer temporary relief to fire activity, gusty and erratic winds are possible. A warming and drying trend is expected to return on Sunday.
Closures: The Mt. Hood National Forest, the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, and Hood River County closure information can be found by scanning the QR code or following the link below. Closures are in place for the safety of the public and fire crews.
Safety: The public plays an important role in preventing the next wildfire; use caution with all ignition sources. For prevention tips visit, https://keeporegongreen.org. Fire restrictions are in place within the Mt. Hood National Forest. More information can be found at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/mthood/fire. A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in place over both fire areas.
Smoke: Air quality conditions are forecast to be good for both fire areas. For more information on smoke conditions in your area, go to: www.AirNow.gov.
For further information about the Whisky Creek and Sandstone Fires, see the following resources:
Email: 2024.whiskycreek@firenet.gov or 2024.sandstone.or@firenet.gov
Phone: 541-208-1743, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Web: Scan the QR code or go to https://linktr.ee/whisky_creek.2024
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