8/11/2014 AM Rowena Fire Update

Summary

A small spot fire flared up in grass and scrub oak on McCall Point (the SW corner of the fire) at approximately 2:30pm yesterday. It was quickly knocked down at approximately 7 acres by using water bucket drops from a helicopter, engines, and crew personnel already on the fire.  Control action on the spot fire continued through the remainder of the day shift. Line was constructed and hose lay installed.

Following work with helicopter bucket drops, snags were felled and mop up continued on the steep slopes above the homes along Highway 30.

During the night shift, infra-red cameras were used to locate remaining hot spots in the spot fire on McCall Point and around structures in Divisions A and B. 

Five Department of Corrections crews were utilized in the spot fire during the night shift, to further improve the line and mop up.

The remainder of the fire looks very good.  Crews are close to meeting mop-up objectives.

Structural protection

Structure protection is provided by Mid-Columbia Fire and Rescue through the 911 system. Wildland resources remain on the fire for mop-up.

Evacuations / Road Closures

Evacuation levels were dropped for all areas except Rowena from addresses 5220-6464 on Highway 30 to the west.   

Highway 30 is now open.

Safety tips and information for residents who are returning to their homes can be found here on the Oregon Fire Marshal’s website:  http://www.oregon.gov/osp/SFM/docs/Comm_Ed/WUI/After_a_wildfire.pdf

Fire strategy for today

Aggressive mop up will continue on McCall Point with engines and crews.  Helicopter bucket drops will be made on the steep inaccessible slopes to cool hot spots. Roads accessing the McCall Point area will be improved.  Some contingency lines will be constructed. Firefighters will continue to secure fireline and areas around homes and structures with a minimum 300 foot objective.

Warnings

The public is urged to be mindful of personal safety around ongoing firefighting operations.  Aerial work with helicopters and fire related traffic increase hazards in the area.