Red Flag Warning tests Grasshopper Fire containment as residents begin returning home

Firefighters have increased containment to 49 percent on the 90,768-acre Grasshopper Fire, though officials are warning of a challenging day ahead as a Red Flag Warning takes effect for the area.

The National Weather Service warning predicts strong winds, high temperatures, and low relative humidity through Tuesday evening, with gusts potentially exceeding 30 mph between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. Fire managers have identified initial attack resources to respond quickly to any new fire starts that may occur during these elevated fire danger conditions.

The Oregon State Fire Marshal structural resources are focused on the eastern edge of the fire, using handheld thermal imaging cameras to locate and extinguish hidden heat sources around homes and critical infrastructure. This intensive mop-up work is designed to add depth to containment lines and reduce the risk of rekindles as some residents begin returning to their homes. Collaborative efforts between structural and wildland crews in the Shadybrook area have further reduced threats to homes by improving defensible space.

On the fire’s northwest corner, crews successfully completed firing operations assisted by unmanned aircraft systems to eliminate unburned pockets of fuel and protect The Dalles Watershed. To the south, high-line operations are taking place near Crane Prairie, just north of Bonney Meadows, to allow crews to construct fire lines in steep and difficult terrain.

While evacuation levels were reduced in the northeast portion of the fire on Monday due to steady progress, multiple evacuation notices remain in effect for Hood River, Wasco, and Clackamas counties. An evacuation shelter is currently operating at The Dalles Middle School, located at 1100 East 12th St. in The Dalles.

Drivers are urged to use extreme caution along Highway 35, where hazard tree mitigation and heavy equipment operations are ongoing. A Temporary Flight Restriction is in place over the fire area, and officials reminded the public that all aerial firefighting will be grounded if unauthorized drones are detected.

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For additional fire information, call 541-982-5802 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.

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