Terrain Slows Westcliff Fire Mop-Up

Steep, rugged terrain has slowed mop-up work on the Westcliff Fire northwest of Hood River between Interstate 84 and the Columbia River.  On Monday firefighters held the fire within the containment lines, and were able to improve control to 75%.  Because of the cliffy nature of the terrain firefighters are being extra cautious in their actions on the fire.  Potential rolling debris is a concern as crews grid through the fire interior.  Timber fallers were able to fall several trees within the fire perimeter which still had live fire burning within the canopy.  A Type 1 helicopter was then used to drop water on the flames to reduce the heat and allow firefighters to fully extinguish the heat.  Resources still assigned to the fire include four wildland engines and a 20-person crew, with two helicopters available as needed.  Union Pacific train traffic is moving through the area slowly, coordinating with firefighters as it enters the area.  Evacuation orders were reduced Monday, with some Level 1 areas remaining.

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