Containment for the Memaloose 2 Fire rose to 75% Tuesday afternoon. Crews are systematically working through the interior of the fire looking for heat and flames. The burn pattern of the fire left a mosaic of unburned fuels inside the perimeter which complicates mop-up as firefighters need to make sure unburned fuels will not be ignited by adjacent heat sources. Firefighters are also challenged by the steep terrain in areas.
More than 100 firefighters are assigned to the fire and helicopters are also available if needed.
Level 1 evacuation orders remain for the Rowena Dell area near the fire. Updates can be found on the Wasco County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page.
Interstate 84 and U.S. Highway 30 are open with no restrictions. The Eastbound Memaloose Rest Area is still closed.
Authorities remind everyone that fire conditions are extremely hazardous and with firefighting resources growing scarce it is vitally important that regulations in the forest are followed to reduce the risk of new fires.
The investigation on the cause of the Memaloose 2 Fire continues.