Cougar Rock Complex wildfires update for July 19
Cougar Rock Complex map as of July 19.
Photo courtesy of USFS
CLARKIA — Progress continues on securing lines around the fires still burning in the Cougar Rock Complex. The surge of firefighting forces has really helped increase the amount of fire line around the active fire perimeters. Heavy equipment is opening roads so firefighters have improved access. These roads may serve as containment lines to help tighten up the overall fire perimeter. Hand crews are going direct where conditions permit.
In more challenging terrain, firefighters are scouting locations for handlines and will construct those lines during the next operation period. After initial containment lines are constructed, work will continue with the goal of strengthening and enhancing lines. Firefighters have scouted areas to perform burnout operations to clean up lines, weather permitting.
Size: 4,367 acres
Containment: 15%
Personnel: 412
Start Date: July 6, 2021
Cause: Lightning
Total Fires in Complex: 14
RESOURCES: 3 type 1 crews, 4 type 2 crews, 1 type 3 helicopter, 16 dozers, 8 engines, 9 water tenders, 6 excavator, 9 feller bunchers, 2 skidgeons, 1 grader, 2 skidders, 8 smoke jumpers
WEATHER: A red flag warning is in effect from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. PDT today. High and mid-level moisture will increase this morning leading to a chance of showers and a few thunderstorms this afternoon and evening. Little rain is expected but gusty and erratic outflow winds are certainly possible with stronger storms. There will be a slight chance of showers on Tuesday afternoon as well. Temperatures will be in the high 80s to low 90s, but daytime temperatures will decrease on Tuesday.
CLOSURES:
• Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFR) are in place for the air space over the fires to lessen impacts to local aviation operators. Remember that temporary flight restrictions also apply to unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) or drones. If you fly, we can’t!
• Two closures remain in place for firefighter and public safety: 1) Granddad Bridge on the Dworshak Reservoir and 2) at Captain’s Cabin near Elk River. These roads remain open for fire and industrial traffic.
Stage II fire restrictions remain in effect for the Grangeville Fire Restriction Area. For more information regarding current fire restrictions visit: Fire Restrictions Finder.
Daily updates about local smoke conditions can be found at https://cloud.deq.idaho.gov/s/Gd8YXWqJ6o6TkGc.