Fire intensifies near Sisters, Oregon with wind and heat driving new activity

SISTERS, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Fire activity intensified today near Sisters, Ore., with short-range spotting occurring in the southeast part of the fire.

The increased activity, driven by hot, dry, windy conditions, was observed near Wilt Road, Blaze Lane and Big Buck Road. Eight task forces are working to strengthen and improve structure protection in the area.

A localized Red Flag Warning will be in effect tomorrow for the fire area due to the continued hot, dry, windy conditions that can contribute to fire spread. These conditions have also led to power outages for safety.

Homes located on Stevens Canyon Road to Pine Glen Road and those north of Indian Ford Road will remain without power. Central Electric Coop is the power provider for these affected areas.

A large plume of smoke became visible this afternoon in an unburned pocket of vegetation near Little Akawa Butte. The fire slowly advanced through an old fire scar, scattered ponderosa pine and manzanita.

Airtankers conducted retardant drops ahead of the fire to slow its progress. Helicopters supported ground crews with water drops and also built a wet line near Little Akawa Butte.

Dozers worked to slow the fire's forward progression and reinforced control lines along the western perimeter to contain its growth. Mop-up work continued along the northern and southern edges of the fire area.

This mop-up stage involves carefully extinguishing hot spots, cooling ash pits and removing smoldering debris near containment lines. These efforts are crucial to securing the fire perimeter.

Crews will continue holding lines tonight along active areas and structures. They will also put out any new spot fires as high winds are expected to continue until the early morning hours.

Drivers in the vicinity of the fire should use extreme caution. Heavy equipment, fire engines and firefighters are working on and next to roadways. Windy conditions may cause smoke or dust to blow across roads without warning, reducing visibility.

In the early morning hours, crews will resume strengthening lines and mopping up. They will also evaluate the potential for contingency lines in the southwest part of the fire. Weather conditions are expected to improve later this week.