Overview:Overnight, crews used IR technology to detect heat and locate hotspots up to 150 feet from the perimeter, allowing firefighters to continue targeted mop-up operations. In some areas, mop-up was extended up to 300 feet from control lines toward the interior. Near Whychus Creek Canyon, IR scans showed only minimal hotspots around homes, a direct result from work completed by both structural and wildland crews in anticipation of today and Friday’s critical fire weather.

Today, firefighters will face hot, dry conditions and gusty afternoon winds. The fire area is under a Red Flag Warning through Friday. These weather conditions will challenge the work already in place and test established lines.

Wildland crews along the south end of the fire are working inside the canyon, while structural crews are positioned to protect homes along the rim. Later today, west winds are expected to increase, bringing downslope gusts that will create hotter, drier, and more challenging conditions. West-northwest winds will reveal hidden hotspots and may revive the flames for some of the spots. In anticipation of this expected wind shift, additional resources have been moved to the south and southeastern perimeter. Structural and wildland crews are in position, ready to defend homes and at-risk areas. Firefighters remain focused on protecting the community and holding the line through this period of heightened fire weather.

Evacuations:Evacuations are managed by the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.

They can also be reached by phone: Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office at (541) 388-6655, and Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office (541) 475-6520.