UPDATE: The Juniper Canyon Fire has surged to approximately 10,000 acres as of 9:01 a.m. on August 30, 2023, prompting urgent firefighting efforts in Umatilla County, Oregon. Fire crews, collaborating closely with the Oregon Department of Forestry and the U.S. Forest Service, have made significant progress in containing the blaze, which has been active in the rugged terrains along Highway 730.
Emergency Management Coordinator Sage DeLong confirmed that the fire has burned through a mix of unprotected private property and land managed by the Bureau of Land Management. As firefighters continue to battle the flames, residents are advised to expect a strong presence of emergency responders in the area.
The fire’s growth was exacerbated by challenging topography, necessitating aerial support for effective containment measures. DeLong emphasized, “The use of aircraft was critical to slowing the fire’s advance.” Local farmers and ranchers have also been instrumental, utilizing equipment to create fire lines that help prevent further spread.
In a related incident, a smaller wildfire ignited on the evening of August 29, burning 62 acres near Sunridge Middle School in Pendleton. Fortunately, no injuries or significant property losses were reported, although some damage occurred. Fire Chief Anthony Pierotti noted that large pieces of wood in the area may continue to smolder for days.
Firefighters from multiple agencies, including the Bureau of Indian Affairs Wildland Fire and the Umatilla Tribal Fire Department, responded swiftly to the Pendleton fire, showcasing a coordinated regional effort in tackling these urgent situations.
Officials are currently investigating the cause of the fires. DeLong stated that the acreage figures for the Juniper Canyon Fire may fluctuate as crews finalize mapping efforts in the steep, rugged terrain.
As firefighting efforts continue, residents and travelers are encouraged to stay informed about potential road closures or evacuation orders. For now, DeLong assured the public, “There are no road closures or evacuation orders in place.”
Stay tuned for further updates as this situation develops. The community’s resilience and partnerships with fire officials remain critical in protecting homes and land from these devastating wildfires.
