New incident management team takes command of Paradise, Hagen, Horse Ridge wildfires

UMATILLA NATIONAL FOREST — Northern Rockies Complex Incident Management Team Six took command Thursday of three wildfires burning in the Umatilla National Forest, as firefighters prepare for hot, dry weather expected through Saturday.

The Paradise Fire has scorched 1,665 acres 10 miles southeast of Walla Walla with no containment. The fire made gains to the west overnight into the Mill Creek drainage, which aligns with expected winds. Firefighters are reinforcing structure protection to the north and northwest while working to protect Walla Walla’s municipal watershed. Umatilla and Walla Walla counties have placed nearby residents in Level 1 “Get Ready” evacuation status.

The largest of the three wildfires, the Hagen Fire, has burned 40,803 acres 12 miles northwest of Elgin, with 11 percent containment. Crews are working along Forest Service Road 3128 and evaluating structures west of Road 204 as “fingers” on the southeast side of the fire are expected to merge as the fire consumes available fuels.

Meanwhile, the 860-acre Horse Ridge Fire, located 5 miles northeast of Meacham, is 98 percent contained and in patrol status.

Over the past three weeks, helicopters have dropped more than 1.5 million gallons of water across the three fires. However, officials warn elevated fire risk could trigger uphill runs and spotting up to a half-mile if smoke clears and sunlight hits critically dry fuels.

Forest officials have issued public use restrictions and area closures, including several trailheads and campgrounds. Temporary flight restrictions also remain in effect.

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Elkhorn Media Group