UKIAH — Containment of the Battle Mountain Complex of fires burning near Ukiah stands at 87%, the Oregon Department of Forestry reported in an update Wednesday, Aug. 14.

Crews removed nearly 35,000 feet of hose from the southwest side of the complex and also built 434 miles of line to contain the fires.

While containment has steadily increased, more than 1,000 personnel work each day to mop up the remaining hot spots, remove equipment and repair any damage caused during the height of the suppression effort.

Firefighters and equipment operators are repairing fences, fire lines, stream crossings and landings, according to the standards local government agencies provided, ODF reported. Local resource advisors inspect the work for approval. Once it is approved, crews move on to the next priority repair.

County officials continue to reassess evacuations, and public lands are reopening in many areas. The Bureau of Land Management rescinded their closure order in the John Day River corridor from Service Creek to Kimberly and Kimberly to Monument. However, vegetation remains extremely dry and fire restrictions are in place. The potential for new fire starts is high and anyone recreating on public lands should stay informed about local fire restrictions.

The public can expect to see more firefighters and equipment parked along roads. With heavy equipment coming off the fire there may be increased traffic. The forestry department urged drivers to pass with caution and be alert for large trucks on blind corners.

Weather

Aug. 14 will be mostly sunny and hazy with highs in the 80s and 90s. Partly to mostly cloudy skies arrive Aug. 15 with a 60% chance of rain and a 40% chance of lightning. However, not much measurable precipitation is expected. Cooler temperatures are expected the night of Aug. 15 as a cold front moves into the region.

Smoke, road closures and more

Smoke has moderated but is expected to persist from regional fires in the area. Residents can expect to continue to see smoke from interior pockets of unburned fuel. Helicopters will patrol the fire and provide bucket-drop support if needed. To see a detailed smoke outlook, visit linktr.ee/battlemntcomplex2024.

That site also contains information on evacuation levels, public land closures, road closures and fire restrictions.

Total estimated complex size: 182,870 acres

Total containment: 87%

Cause: under investigation

Estimated cost: $66 million

Resources

22 crews

36 engines

3 helicopters

25 water tenders

18 dozers

1,017 personnel