Whisky Creek and Sandstone Fire Updates - August 22, 2024
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: 779 | Hand Crews: 18 | Engines: 11 | Dozers: 5 | Other Heavy Equipment: 31 | Helicopters: 4
The Dalles, Ore. Aug. 22, 2024 — 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. While this week’s rain will help moderate fire behavior, it won’t fall in sufficient amounts to reach sheltered areas or extinguish heavy fuels such as large logs that continue to burn. These fires may require active management and resources until sustained, season-ending precipitation occurs.
Whisky Creek: Yesterday, crews confirmed that the southern line options were not suitable as control features and were found unsafe due to terrain hazards. However, options near Tomlike Mountain were identified as more feasible and line construction began. The percentage of containment increased from 9% to 24%. Today, crews will focus on reinforcing containment lines, particularly around the Black Lake area and the newly established line near Tomlike Mountain. Heavy equipment operations, including mastication, will continue as planned.
Sandstone & Blister Creek: Yesterday, helicopters delivered over 11,000 gallons of water from Surprise Lake to the Blister Creek Fire, targeting otherwise inaccessible areas. Mastication efforts progressed along Forest Road 7010, with additional line improvement along several roadways.
Today, aerial resources will remain focused on the uncontained portions of the Blister Creek Fire, with continued bucket drops and monitoring. Heavy equipment operators will concentrate on mastication, fuel reduction, and road improvements around the fire area.
Weather and Fire Behavior: Cooler temperatures, higher humidity, and scattered showers will moderate fire behavior. A cold front will move into the area, bringing widespread showers beginning this evening and continuing into the weekend.
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.
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.
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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