Oregon’s ‘megafires’ nearing full containment

PORTLAND, Ore. ( KOIN ) — Firefighters are close to containing some of the largest wildfires in Oregon.

As of Aug. 14, all five of Oregon’s ‘megafires’ are more than 85% contained. The U.S. Interagency Fire Center defines a megafire as a fire that is 100,000 acres or greater.

Northwest Interagency Coordination Center spokesperson Kyle Sullivan told KOIN 6 News that firefighters are making the most progress in eastern Oregon.

“Firefighters are making good progress on containing fires, especially in eastern Oregon,” Sullivan said. “Containment was achieved on Lone Rock, Courtrock, and Round Mountain fires. Significant progress has been made towards containment on Sand, Falls and Elk Lane fires as well. In Western Oregon, crews continue to face challenges of difficult access, steep terrain and dry fuels.”

Oregon’s Megafires:

Battle Mountain Complex : 182,870 acres, 87% contained

Falls Fire : 151,166 acres, 89% contained

Lone Rock Fire : 137,222 acres, 98% contained

Durkee Fire : 294,265 acres, 95% contained

Cow Valley Fire : 133,490 acres, 99% contained

Thunderstorms are forecast to hit Oregon during the weekend. Scattered showers are likely in some parts of the state. However, the risk of new lightning-caused fires remains high.

“Storms will begin dry on Thursday, which could bring lightning and winds,” Sullivan said. “This is bringing a high risk of new fires to southern Oregon east of the Cascades. Central and northern Oregon are at moderate risk Thursday evening given more frequent lightning even with higher rain. Western Oregon should see cooler temperatures and a better chance for wetting rain on Sunday.”

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