Durkee Fire (ORVAD)

Wildfire Status:

The Durkee Fire, which ignited due to lightning at approximately 9:30 a.m. on July 17, 2024, is currently 95% contained, covering an area of 294,265 acres. Firefighters have made significant progress in managing the blaze and are now engaged in suppression repair efforts. The Southern Area Gold Complex Incident Management Team is set to transfer the management of the fire back to local units by 8 p.m. PDT today, reflecting the effective response and containment achieved so far.

Despite the impressive containment efforts, the fire danger remains elevated. The region is experiencing warm temperatures, with forecasts predicting highs near 100 degrees and relative humidity levels dropping into the low teens. These dry conditions, coupled with critically low moisture in the fuels, pose a substantial risk for potential flare-ups, particularly in areas impacted by recent lightning storms. Fire officials are on alert for any new starts and are prepared for aggressive fire behavior should such incidents occur.

Current weather conditions include sunny skies and light winds from the west and northwest, contributing to a moderate smoke outlook across East Central Oregon. While the immediate threat to containment is low, the fire's potential to spread outside the established perimeter increases with the forecasted heat and dryness. Planned actions include securing the fire line, focusing on mop-up operations, and conducting aerial infrared flights to identify any residual heat. As the situation evolves, fire agencies continue to monitor conditions closely to ensure the safety of personnel and the surrounding communities.

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Containment History:

Fire Growth History: