Single Publication

Fire Information: Phone: (541) 208-1744 daily from 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Email: 2024.microwavetower@firenet.gov

Microwave Fire Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/2024MicrowaveTowerFire/

InciWeb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/or954s-microwave-tower

53% Contained

170 Personnel

1062 Acres

5 miles west, southwest of Mosier, OR

Burning in brush, timber, and grass 

Highlights

Yesterday’s westerly winds helped pull smoke and heat back into the fire area during the strategic burning operations, enabling aircraft to support ground firefighters with water drops. Crews also made significant progress, mopping up approximately 150 feet along the eastern, southern, and western containment lines. This effort focused on identifying and extinguishing hot spots to prevent further spread.

Due to the steep terrain, rolling debris and gusty, westerly winds last night, the fire crossed below the Historical Columbia River State Trail to the railroad tracks, reaching the secondary dozer line. This has created new challenges for firefighters. They will continue to improve containment lines and hold the fire from advancing beyond the current fire perimeter. Aviation support will be utilized as soon as possible today, weather and wind permitting. Aircraft plays a role in cooling down hot spots and providing additional support to ground crews. Lane restrictions are in place along Interstate 84, with one eastbound lane currently closed. Motorists are advised to exercise caution while driving in the area.

A community meeting will be held tonight at 7:00 p.m.in Mosier. The meeting location will be announced via the social media links located above and InciWeb as soon as a facility is identified. Residents are encouraged to attend to receive updates on the firefighting efforts and to ask questions.

A transfer of command for the incident will occur on Monday, July 29, 2024, at 6 a.m. A local Type 3 Incident Management Team, led by Incident Commander Jeremy Goers, will assume command of the firefighting efforts. This transition aims to ensure a seamless continuation of operations and community support. 

Fire Behavior

Fire behavior will be active along the northwest flank from firing operations. Expect an increase in smoke production, visible from I-84. Within the contained firelines, pockets of fuels are critically dry, expect to see active fire behavior.  

Evacuations 

Existing Level 3, 2 and 1 evacuations on the east side of the fire area remains in place. For updated information please follow https://www.facebook.com/WascoCountySheriff. Stay informed through official channels for the latest update.

The evacuation preparedness level remains at Level 1 on the west side of the fire area. Please follow https://www.facebook.com/hrcso for additional information. The Red Cross center is available at the Hood River Middle School for anyone needing a place to go.