Single Publication

Cougar Creek Fire Update for Sunday July 28, 2024 

CURRENT STATUS:  

The new lightning ignition in the Temporary Flight Restriction from yesterday, now called the First Creek Fire, was met with rappellers who responded to this new start approximately three miles west of the Cougar Creek Fire. The First Creek Fire is burning mid-way up the ridge, and its growth potential could be influenced by terrain-driven winds throughout the day. Another squad of rappellers was deployed yesterday to assist with operations, while helicopters provided water drops in support.  

There was limited fire growth in the north and northeast yesterday, as well as in the south near Grouse Flats. Today, the Cougar Creek Fire will see an increase in fire activity as the day progresses due to winds aligning with topography. Indirect line construction is underway in the west, from Grouse Flats to the Three Forks Trailhead. To the south, mop up operations have begun outside of Grouse Flats, with heavy equipment completing dozer lines. Ground crews are continuing their structure protection efforts. On the western flank, fire resources took advantage of reduced fire behavior and engaged the fire directly where it is effective for containment.   

FIRE BEHAVIOR AND WEATHER: 

Winds are expected to increase slightly from the west/southwest. This afternoon, a cold front will pass through, bringing a slight chance of thunderstorms Monday evening into Tuesday. This front will increase relative humidity levels in the area. However, hot and dry conditions will return on Wednesday. 

EVACUATIONS AND CLOSURES:  

Forest closure descriptions and maps are available online on the Umatilla National Forest Closure page. In Washington, evacuation notices are posted on the Asotin County Sheriff webpage and Asotin County Emergency Management  Facebook page. Grande Ronde Road is closed from Troy, Oregon to Highway 129 junction in Washington.  In Oregon, a level 2 evacuation is in effect for Wallowa County, including all of Grouse Flat from Bear Creek Rd north to the State boundary and the Garfield County line to Grande Ronde River.