The North Cayuse Fire burning east of Pendleton in Umatilla County, Oregon has grown to an estimated 4,663 acres as firefighters work to reinforce containment lines ahead of continued red flag weather. The fire is burning in steep, hilly terrain through grass and timber, and has prompted Level 1 "Be Ready" evacuation notices for portions of the Buckaroo Lane to Iskuulpa area.
Fire Status
As of Tuesday, July 7, 236 personnel were assigned to the North Cayuse Fire. Containment stood at approximately 12% following more accurate mapping that revised earlier acreage estimates. Fire managers reported active fire behavior on the southwest perimeter, where moderate runs recently pushed flames closer to containment boundaries. Firefighters are concentrating efforts on reinforcing control lines in that sector.
Air Operations
A temporary flight restriction remains in effect over the fire area to support aerial firefighting operations. McKay Reservoir, east of Pendleton, has been closed to public access to facilitate aerial water scooping operations. Air tankers and helicopters have been critical assets in slowing the fire's spread in rugged terrain where ground access is limited.
Evacuations
Umatilla County emergency managers have issued a Level 1 "Be Ready" evacuation notice for the Buckaroo Lane to Iskuulpa corridor east of Pendleton. No Level 3 "Go Now" orders are currently in place. Residents in Level 1 zones should ensure they have a go-bag prepared and know their evacuation route in case conditions worsen.
Air Quality
Smoke from the North Cayuse Fire is affecting air quality in Pendleton and surrounding Umatilla County communities. Local monitors have recorded levels in the "Moderate" range, with some sensors reaching "Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups" at times. People with asthma, heart disease, the elderly, and children should limit prolonged outdoor exertion when smoke is present.
Fire Weather Concern
The National Weather Service Pendleton office issued red flag warnings for the Lower Columbia Basin of Oregon on July 6 and 7, citing dry and breezy to windy conditions capable of producing critical fire weather. The North Cayuse Fire, burning in receptive fine fuels, remains a significant concern as elevated fire weather continues across eastern Oregon through mid-week.