Firefighters Mopping up Fire by Mount Thielsen

(UNF) ROSEBURG, OR – August 1, 2020 – Wildland Firefighters continue to work to suppress one new fire within the Mount Thielsen Wilderness. After exhaustive searches for other fires which included crews on the ground and aerial detection flights no other fires have been discovered. The crew will continue to mop up the Hound Dog fire this morning and are expected to begin the hike out later today. On the morning of July 31, responding resources were able to gain access into Incident 281, located in the Thielsen Wilderness, and began work. The Incident Commander for Incident 281 requested aviation assistance and a type 2 helicopter was dispatched to assist firefighters with bucket drops and a sling load of supplies. Fire crews were able to contain 281 on July 31. The crew remained in place overnight and will reengage in this morning. The remainder of North Zone fire resources patrolled the district and assisted in helicopter support while remaining ready for Initial Attack response. No new fires were reported by end of the day. The Umpqua will be conducting additional detection flights today seeking any new starts. The Northwest Fire Potential Summary (https://gacc.nifc.gov/nwcc/content/products/fwx/guidance/DL.pdf?2020-07-31%2011:11:44) Hot, dry, unstable weather conditions will diminish east of the Cascades as a cooling trend sets in. The loss of lightning potential means human-caused fires are the main threat. Westerly winds at times in the basins east of the Cascades will continue to create a moderate threat of wind driven fires in light fuels. Overall, large fire risk is near normal levels for early August. Fire managers would like to remind the public as the high temperatures in the area continue, fuels such as grass and forest duff will continue to dry and be receptive to any ember or spark to start a new fire so use caution while working or recreating outdoors. The forest remains at a MODERATE fire danger rating today and will be raised to HIGH beginning Sunday morning at 12:01 a.m. Public Use Restriction (PUR) level remains at 1. For more information about the Umpqua National Forest or current fire restrictions call (541) 957-3200, during normal wokring hours (M-F 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) or www.fs.usda.gov/umpqua