September 1, 2023 3:40 a.m.

Weather has improved conditions on the Tyee Ridge Complex, burning 20 miles north west of Roseburg.

The complex remains listed at 6,678 acres and is now 8 percent contained. 1,537 people are assigned to the fires.

An update from the Northwest Incident Management Team 1 and the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Red Team said on Thursday rainfall was widespread throughout the complex, with up to a quarter of an inch recorded at many locations. As a result, fire behavior was less active than in prior days. Smoldering and creeping occurred, with no spot fires or uphill runs. Firefighters took advantage of these conditions and built line at the fire’s edge in many locations. This tactic is intended to limit the overall footprint of a fire.

The weather also allowed crews to further increase mop up on the Big Tom, Hardscrabble, Blue Hole, and Yellow Creek fires. Hotshot crews prepared line on the Lighthouse fires for further tactical firing operations if needed. Ground operations made progress on several areas on the Cougar Creek Fire. They continued to attack and line existing spot fires and slopovers. Near residences on Hubbard Creek Road, Oregon State Fire Marshal task forces provided continued protection and enhanced defensible space, while wildland crews reinforced and held line. Hazard trees remain a challenge on many roads. Oregon Department of Forestry resources focused on identifying and removing those for firefighter and public safety.

The update said another significant hazard with the changes in weather is visibility. Smoke and fog were present Thursday. Motorists should use caution as sight distances will be limited.

Evacuation notices from the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office remained unchanged Thursday. An estimated 197 people have evacuated. No structures have been damaged or destroyed. The Red Cross shelter for evacuees remains open at The Way Church on East Central in Sutherlin.

Tyee Ridge Complex updates are available at: https://www.facebook.com/tyeeridgecomplex