October 8, 2024 11:10 a.m.

Fuels continue to dry out and become more available to burn in the Homestead Complex.

An Umpqua National Forest update said the fire areas saw the highest temperatures of the recent warming and drying trend, with a corresponding increase in fire behavior. Conditions are now beginning to cool, and humidity will increase as more fall-like weather moves into the area, helping to subdue fire behavior.

Monday, fire activity on the Horse Heaven Fire picked up in the afternoon, establishing across hand line on the northwest flank and moving toward Calapooya Divide. Fire managers called in a heavy helicopter to drop approximately 23,000 gallons of water to slow fire spread. Crews are continuing to seed and spread straw over the dozer lines as part of fire suppression repair to prevent erosion.

The Fuller Lake Fire was very active Monday in the Bradley Lake area and within the Boulder Creek Wilderness. An infrared flight from overnight helped fire managers assess the fire spread and identify the growth perimeter. With moderate conditions, fire activity is expected to moderate, allowing firefighters to reinforce control features. Patrols will continue to watch for and secure flare ups or hot spots. Along a secured portion of the Bullpup Fire, firefighters are beginning to dismantle and backhaul several miles of hose line.

Road work continues on the Diamond Complex. Graders are being moved around to assist with suppression repair on roads within the complex, including those adjacent to the Brodie and Lemolo fires.