Firefighters still battling for control on Milli Fire

Published 6:30 am Saturday, August 26, 2017

Fire fighting activity increased Friday as crews try to contain the 13,485-acre Milli Fire, burning nine miles west of Sisters.

Air tankers were dropping fire retardant to prepare an area north of McKenzie Pass Highway for a burnout operation later Friday evening.

The retardant will coat the forest, putting an added barrier between the burned and unburned areas. The precautionary measure is expected to minimize the fire’s spread, according to officials.

Fire crews also planned a burnout operation Friday afternoon along Forest Road 1018 south of McKenzie Pass Highway. Those who live in the Black Butte Ranch area could see flames and smoke. The Black Butte Ranch area, Tollgate subdivision and all areas between McKenzie Highway and U.S. Highway 20 are still being warned of a possible evacuation.

The Crossroads subdivision and residents on Edgington, Remuda, Peterson Burn, Wildwing and Three Creeks roads residences are still being told to be ready for a potential evacuation.

The lightning-caused fire is 32 percent contained, but fire officials are predicting warmer and drier weather this weekend could increase the fire on the west side in the wilderness. Smoke columns will again be seen from the area.

More burnout operations could continue for the next few days, officials said.