Update-Friday, September 4, 2020

For Immediate Release

Incident Commander: Alan Lawson, Northwest Team 10

E-mail – 2020.p515@firenet.gov

Fire Information: 971-277-5075

Warm Springs, Oregon – This update is for the P-515 Fire and Lionshead Fire burning on the Warm Springs Reservation.  Both fires are being managed for full suppression.

Current Status:  The P-515 fire remains in mop up and patrol status. Resources no longer needed on P-515 are assisting crews on the Lionshead fire. As resources reach their 14-day limit, they are being demobilized as appropriate to meet operational needs.

The Lionshead Fire is now 9,989 acres and 31% contained.  The fire has progressed farther to the west and southwest, moving up the Whitewater River and Milk Creek drainages.  The fire has pushed the southwest flank, crossing an established dozer line. Air resources have continued to work on slowing spread, with multiple heavy air tankers dropping retardant on the southern flank throughout the afternoon.   Helicopter resources, including the Air National Guard supported ground resources throughout the afternoon, yesterday.

Today’s Operations: Air resources will continue to support ground crews on the southwestern flank to slow spread, as crews work to determine possible fire line locations in the southwest flank. On the NW flank, crews will continue to look for opportunities to extend line to the west. Fire crews face continued challenges due to the difficult terrain, high temperatures and dry conditions.

Weather and Fire Behavior:  Transport winds will push smoke to the northeast with winds to 13 mph, and lower elevation gusts to 20 mph.   Temperatures will be 15 to 20 degrees above average with slightly cooler temperatures at higher elevations. Abundant dry fuels, difficult terrain and persistent burning conditions with very active fire behavior into the overnight hours is expected.

Closures: Trout Lake Road at pavement end; Road B140 at Potter’s Pond; Road B210 and Road P-500. All trails south of Trout Lake, west of M-120 Metolius Bench, east of Mt. Jefferson, and north of J-195 will be closed to the public. Tenino Road (P-200) is closed to the public, with only fire personnel and residents permitted.

Evacuations: There are currently no evacuation orders associated with the P-515 or Lionshead Fires.

COVID-19: Our highest priority is the safety of the public and all wildland fire personnel. To keep firefighters and communities healthy and safe during the P-515 and Lionshead Fires, all fire personnel are expected to follow recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This includes limiting public access to the Incident Command Post (ICP) at the Warm Springs Fairgrounds. While COVID-19 circumstances are rapidly evolving, and federal agency guidance continues to adapt with the situation, NW Team 10 is prepared for wildland fire activity during this time.

Prevention Message: Let’s unite, not ignite! Prevent wildfires

AQ Report 9.4.20
PIO Map 9_4
Final Fire Update 9-4-2020 P-515 and Lionshead