North Cayuse Fire holds at 4,663 acres; new management team takes over Thursday

By Griffin Beach on Wednesday, July 8th, 2026 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories

MISSION – The latest update on the North Cayuse Fire was provided Wednesday morning, noting that the fire’s management will shift to a Northwest Incident Management Team on Thursday.

Numbers released Wednesday showed the fire at 4,663 acres with 12% containment, indicating no change from yesterday’s update.

Overnight, crews continued to hold the fire west of Iskuulpa Creek while conducting mop-up operations on the south side of the perimeter. Firefighters on the north and west edge patrolled containment lines checking for signs of heat.

On Wednesday, crews will continue strengthening controls lines, conduct mop-ups, and address lingering hot spots. Aircraft continues to support ground crews, and McKay Reservoir remains closed to support those operations.

A Level One, Be Ready evacuation remains active for areas near the fire.

Map of North Cayuse Fire provided by Oregon Department of Forestry – Northeast Oregon District