Black Butte Fire 30 percent contained
By Paul Hall on Wednesday, August 18th, 2021 in Eastern/Southeast Oregon News More Top Stories
UNITY, OR – Fire crews were able to strengthen lines around the entire fire perimeter of the Black Butte, South of Unity. Crews that were working a swing shift are now working a full night shift to take advantage of lower temperatures and higher relative humidity. Currently, the fire has burned over 20,000 acres, 30 percent contained, with the cause determined to be lightning.
Fire activity on the eastside remained low and did not move outside containment lines. On the northwest side of the perimeter, interior islands of green burned throughout the day creating various plumes of smoke. During night shift, Hotshot crews and engines successfully completed a portion of burnout operations on the northwestern edge. These operations will slow down the forward progression of fire, giving firefighters a tactical advantage. Today, crews will continue to patrol and mop up around the entire perimeter while watching for spotting or slop over. Air operations will be available as needed and as weather allows. Night shift will continue burnout operations if conditions permit.
Cooler temperatures are expected today with a slight increase in humidity. Winds from the northwest will continue to be strong, ranging from 12 – 17 mph with gusts up to 28 mph in the exposed areas and aligned drainages. Smoke will be visible today as interior islands continue to burn and skies become clear in the afternoon.
Closures:
Recreation Sites within the closure boundary: North Fork Malheur River Trailheads both north and south, North Fork Malheur Campground, Crane Crossing Trailheads both east and west, Short Creek Guard Station, Elk Creek Campground, Sunshine Flat Trailhead and Trail, Horseshoe Trailhead and Trail, Sheep Creek Trail and Trailhead, Little Crane Campground.
Currently the Trout Farm and Crescent Campgrounds are still open to the public.
For updated Forest closure information, please visit the Forest webpage at www.fs.usda.gov/malheur or Facebook https://www.facebook.com/MalheurNationalForest.
