Firefighting crews continue mop-up efforts of Marks Creek Fire as Flash Flood Watch Issued in Central Oregon Fire Area

PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ) – Firefighting crews continued mop-up efforts around the perimeter of the fire throughout the day yesterday and overnight, working 100 to 200 feet into the interior. An infrared (IR) flight and handheld IR cameras identified remaining hotspots along the fire line.

Today, crews will focus on addressing the hot spots detected by the IR flight and cameras to ensure they are fully extinguished. Suppression repair on dozer lines will also continue to mitigate erosion and other long-term resource impacts from firefighting efforts.

More widespread rain showers are expected today, and the National Weather Service has issued a flash flood watch for the area. Firefighters are prepared to monitor the situation to ensure safety on the fire line and as they return to camp at the end of their shifts.

Highway 26 remains open, but firefighters and heavy equipment are entering and exiting the roadway in multiple areas along the fire perimeter. Drivers are urged to use caution and slow down to ensure the safety of both firefighters and the public.

Note: Information provided by Central Oregon Fire