The fire is considered 70% contained. Approximately 75 firefighters are still working at the fire. Revised estimates of burned area based on ground reconnaissance, aerial footage and GIS analysis remains 875 acres. Firefighters have been able to protect all homes, but three barns have burned. Fire investigators have been conducting witness interviews and examining material evidence. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Water drops provided by the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) on Thursday, September 10, were instrumental in the fire fight in difficult areas with steep terrain that is hard to reach for ground crews. This afternoon, fire commanders are meeting with ODF representatives with expertise in wildfire tactics to inform the strategy to fully contain the fire.

Some residents who were evacuated have been allowed to return home. The searchable map: https://tvfr.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=1981954eb1814f9ea896ab7a0eb4f784  shows areas that are now safe, though it’s important for people to be prepared to leave again if fire conditions change.

With smoky conditions everywhere, we encourage people to visit the Health and Human Services web sites for tips: https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/PREPAREDNESS/PREPARE/Pages/PrepareForWildfire.aspx#health

Cassandra Ulven with TVF&R states, “We are very pleased with the progress that has been made on the Chehalem Mountain – Bald Peak Fire and look forward to being able to let more residents return to their homes. Our hearts go out to all the Oregonians who are being affected by wildfires. We urge people to make responsible decisions while conditions remain dry. Please respect burn bans. Avoid activities that could start fires such as improperly discarding smoking materials, use of equipment that can create sparks near combustibles or recreational fire pits.”