Town Gulch (ORWWF)

Wildfire Status:

The Town Gulch Fire, which ignited due to lightning on August 5, 2024, has been actively burning in the Eagle Creek area, approximately eight miles north-northwest of Richland, Oregon. As of the latest update, the fire has scorched an estimated 18,220 acres and is currently 89% contained. Fire agencies have been managing the incident as a full suppression effort, prioritizing safety for firefighters, the public, and protection for nearby structures and properties. Despite a slight decrease in fire size due to improved mapping, steep terrain and challenging winding roads continue to pose risks for fire crews operating in the vicinity.

Currently, a total of 285 personnel are deployed to combat the fire, focusing on mop-up operations and patrolling all divisions of the fire. The weather has been a significant factor, with recent light rain providing some relief. However, a warming trend is expected, with temperatures approaching 90 degrees Fahrenheit and low relative humidity levels in the coming days. These conditions, alongside increasing winds, could heighten the risk of fire spread. The incident commander and their team are monitoring the situation closely, with plans to transition management to a Type III team soon.

For the immediate future, the outlook appears cautiously optimistic, with minimal threat of spread overnight and a decrease in fire activity anticipated over the next 48 hours. Nonetheless, fire officials remain vigilant as the forecast suggests hot and dry conditions will persist, potentially leading to increased fire activity if new ignitions occur. The Oregon Governor invoked the conflagration act on August 6, signaling the seriousness of the response to this wildfire.

Visit Inciweb Incident Page for more information. Information on this page is provided for informational purposes only.

Containment History:

Fire Growth History: