Single Publication

Willamette Complex South Update

Chalk, Coffeepot, McKinley, Moss Mountain, Tire Mountain, 208, and 217 Fires 

Thursday, August 29, 2024 

Online: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/orwif-willamette-complex-fires-south  

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WillametteComplexFires/  

Email: 2024.willamettecomplex@firenet.gov  

Fire Information Line: 541-208-1742 

Total Willamette Complex South Personnel: 732 

Total Willamette Complex South Acres: 13,082 

Resources (Includes Pyramid Fire Resources): 1 Type 1 Hotshot Crews, 9 Type 2 Crews, 3 Type 2 Initial Attack Crew, 4 Helicopters, 21 Engines, 6 Dozers, 119 Heavy Equipment (Masticators, Skid Steers, and Feller Bunchers)  

Fire Cause: Lightning   

Summary  

Cooler, moist weather over the past few days has not only limited fire activity but supported fire crews as they’ve worked to strengthen control lines and prepare indirect lines. Crews are identifying and falling fire-weakened trees and snags. This work requires vigilance, and firefighters continually watch for these hazards and prioritize safety. Crews continue to strengthen control lines on the west side of the Chalk Fire, and helicopters delivered several buckets of water on the interior of the Moss Fire. Firefighter and public safety remain the highest priority throughout all phases of the incident. 

Chalk Fire (5,696 acres, 66% containment)  

Crews continue to monitor and improve containment lines on the south, east, and north portions of the fire. On the west portion, crews are deepening control lines from the fire’s main body while continuing to prepare indirect lines and manage fire-weakened trees and snags. 

Moss Mountain Fire (868 acres, 0% containment)  

Crews continue to secure areas south of Forest Service Road (FSR) 2120 into the main body of the fire while constructing indirect line along FSR 2120 and 23 to reduce the risk of fire spread. Helicopters are available again today to drop water on hot spots and keep the fire in check. Crews continue to haul and chip woody debris and remove snags. 

208 Fire (253 acres, 0% containment)  

The 208 Fire is monitored by aircraft, and if necessary, helicopters use bucket drops to keep the fire in check.  

217 Fire (38 acres, 100% contained), Tire Mountain Fire (23 acres, 100% contained), McKinley Fire (24 acres, 100% contained), Coffeepot Fire (6,180 acres, 100% contained) 

These fires are patrolled regularly. Fire crews are improving contingency lines around the Coffeepot Fire. Helicopters will drop water on hot spots as necessary to keep the Coffeepot and 208 Fires in check. 

Weather and Fire Behavior  

Warm temperatures in the upper 80s and low 90s will dominate through the end of the week. Very dry air will spread across the area, leading to low humidity and poor recoveries at night. Warm and dry conditions continue through Saturday. A storm system arrives early next week, bringing a low chance of showers and thunderstorms. 

Closures and Fire Restrictions  

• For specific closure information, visit tinyurl.com/WillFireClosures2024   
• For current fire restrictions, visit tinyurl.com/WillFireRestrictions2024   
• Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFR): tfr.faa.gov for up-to-date areas. Wildfires are a no-fly zone for unauthorized aircraft, including drones. For more information, visit knowbeforeyoufly.org.