The Oregon Department of Forestry Complex Incident Management Team 2 entered into unified command with the Oregon State Fire Marshal on the Rowe Creek Complex Sunday morning. The 373,784-acre fire reached 89 percent containment,.
As fire conditions continue to improve, state structural resources have begun returning to their home agencies. Marion County firefighters demobilized this morning, and the Lane County task force is scheduled to follow this afternoon. Remaining firefighters continue to monitor structures, using thermal imaging cameras to identify hidden hot spots in stumps and logs to prevent the fire from rekindling.
Crews are currently working toward a 300-foot mop-up buffer around homes and buildings across the complex. This work follows a productive night shift where firefighters secured spot fires and conducted mop-up operations in the Mill Creek and Ranger Station Road areas. Suppression efforts are also being supported by firefighters from Australia and New Zealand Team 2.
Fire managers are tracking a warming and drying trend expected today, with northwest winds gusting up to 20 mph. These conditions may increase fire activity ahead of potential thunderstorm activity forecast for Monday.
U.S. Highway 26 remains open to traffic, though a 45 mph speed limit is in effect. Drivers are urged to remain alert for heavy equipment and emergency vehicles and are reminded not to stop or park along the roadway. Level 1, 2, and 3 evacuation orders remain in effect for portions of the fire area.
Relevant Links and Resources:
- Evacuation Information: Crook County Sheriff’s Office | Interactive Map
- Road Conditions: TripCheck
- Forest and BLM Closures: Ochoco National Forest | BLM Restrictions
- Air Quality and Smoke: AirNow | Smoke Outlook
- Fire Restrictions: Central Oregon Fire
A temporary flight restriction is in place over the fire area. The use of unauthorized drones is strictly prohibited and will force the grounding of all firefighting aircraft.