Single Publication

Cougar Creek Fire Update for Wednesday July 31, 2024 

KEY MESSAGES: 

Recent rains and higher humidity levels slowed fire activity yesterday. Tactical burning operations resumed on the southwest side of the fire yesterday to secure a portion of the perimeter. The secondary line on Mallory Ridge east of the fire is nearing completion. 

CURRENT STATUS:  

The First Creek Fire, from last week’s lighting storm, continues to be monitored for smoke and is contained. The spot fire on the eastern edge of the Cougar Creek Fire from the strong westerly winds is now controlled and being monitored for hot spots. 

On the southwest flank of the fire near Grouse Flats, crews have begun patrolling and monitoring the perimeter. If smoke is detected, Initial Attack (IA) crews will be available for incident response. Tactical firing operations will take place as weather conditions allow on the 600 Road and Hansen Ridge.  

Complex Incident Management Team Northwest 13 will transfer command of the Cougar Creek Fire to Complex Incident Management Team Northwest 12, under the direction of Incident Commander Jeff Dimke today at 7:00pm. 

FIRE BEHAVIOR AND WEATHER: 

Due to lower temperatures and higher relative humidity levels the past few days, recent fire progression has been primarily terrain-driven. Lower humidities are expected today along with atmospheric instability which will release some smoke. A high-pressure system is expected to bring warmer temperatures starting Friday and will lower relative humidity levels leading into the weekend.  This rise back into the triple digits later this week, fire behavior may increase. 

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.