Oregon’s largest wildfire continued to burn across Central Oregon, but firefighters have increased containment on the now 100,207-acre blaze on Thursday.
The Boxcar Fire, near Maupin, threw out a 200-acre spot fire Sunday afternoon that kept firefighters busy all night trying to get a line around it.
Officials say despite the gusty winds and low relative humidity on Wednesday, firefighters were able to improve containment lines and mop up. The Boxcar Fire is now at 85 percent containment. There has not been any significant growth on Wednesday, the acre increase is a result of more accurate mapping.
Firefighters are working on targeting hot spots near the fire lines.
A Level 1 evacuation — which means “get ready” — remains in place for the area bounded by Highway 97, Bakeoven Road, the Deschutes River, and the South Junction Road near Maupin.
“Residents are encouraged to be aware of the threat in their area and consider how they would evacuate should conditions change,” the update said.
Sky 8 video: Boxcar wildfire
Jack Knife Fire grows to 15,000 acres
The Jack Knife Fire grew to 15,676 acres and is now 90 percent contained.
Smoke in the area is minimal and area
Firefighters will be working throughout the day to cool hot spots on the perimeter and improve containment.
Graham Fire containment grows
Strong containment lines and diligent mop up operations have kept the perimeter of the Graham Fire, near Lake Billy Chinook, in check, officials said.
After two days with no new fire growth, the Jefferson County Sherriff has lowered the evacuation level to 1 (READY) and is allowing residents in the Three Rivers Subdivision to return to their homes.
The fire has burned 2,175 acres and is estimated at 65 percent containment.
Firefighters are now focused on strengthening control lines and continuing mop up operations. Mop-up involves firefighters digging out hot spots and extinguishing all remaining heat, officials said in a news release.
“We will be judged by how well we leave this fire for the local district and residents. Mop up is hard dirty work. But it’s critically important to do it well. When we mop up right, we can hand the fire back to the local district knowing the perimeter will hold,” Incident Commander Chris Cline said.
Sky 8 video: Graham wildfire
This story will be updated.
Be Ready Set GO Evacuation Information by KGW News on Scribd