Wildfire Update Jun. 26, 2017

A wildfire started on the Warm Springs Indian Reservation of Oregon on Sunday,evening (6/25/17) just after 8:30pm, on the hill behind Indian Head Casino.  The fire moved north and east, driven by strong eratic and gusty winds through mostly grass with some brush and juniper.  State highway 26 and local highway 3 were both closed for a period of time.

The fire is estimated to be between 2200-2400 acres, much of which is from back burns through the night.  Active fire continues to burn in Lower Dry Creek near the Deschutes River.

Warm Springs Fire Management has ordered additional resources today with local crews needing time off having responded to other local fires yesterday and then working through the night.  There are 8 engines coming, 4 – 20 person crews, water tenders and helicopter air support.

Isolated Thunderstorms are in the forecast for this afternoon after 2pm today.  Temperatures are in the 90s again today.  Once resources arrive and local crews are rested, they will begin patrolling zones to check for any lightning starts from yesterday and today’s storms.

All roads are open and work is on schedule in Warm Springs today.

An 8-acre fire was reported Monday afternoon at Sawmill Butte.  A helicopter and crews have been making progress on it. More updates will be provided as they become available.