SAMS VALLEY, Ore. (Oct. 19, 2026) – As containment increases on the West Fork Evans Creek Fire, suppression operations are being adjusted to reflect the changing needs of the 283-acre incident. Containment reached 45% Monday evening, with crews completing mop-up approximately 100 feet into the burned area around the entire perimeter. As more sections of the fire are secured, overnight staffing is being reduced while firefighters continue working toward full containment.
Monday’s suppression efforts focused on addressing remaining heat and removing hazards that could interfere with operations. Along the southern portion of the fire, specialized falling crews completed snag removal up to 300 feet into the burned area, reducing the risk posed by fire-weakened trees. Elsewhere, steep, rocky slopes continue to require careful navigation and specialized suppression techniques. Despite the difficult terrain, firefighters have been able to conduct thorough mop-up operations, working to prevent remaining heat from threatening established firelines.
Tonight’s resources include six 20-person hand crews, six Type 6 engines and five water tenders, supported by three task force leaders, two heavy equipment bosses and two heavy equipment boss trainees. The reduced night shift allows resources to be concentrated where they are most needed while maintaining suppression coverage across the fire. A drone reconnaissance flight is also scheduled overnight to assess conditions and identify any areas requiring additional attention.
Cooler overnight conditions are expected to continue supporting suppression efforts, with temperatures dropping into the mid-40s and relative humidity recovering to approximately 75%. These conditions are expected to limit fire activity as crews continue working deeper into the burned area.
No structures have been lost as a result of the fire, and none are threatened at this time. The cause of the fire is not immediately apparent, and a thorough investigation is ongoing to determine how the fire started. Additional details will be shared as they become available.
The next update is anticipated Tuesday morning, unless conditions warrant an earlier update.