Single Publication

Windigo-Potter-Big Swamp-Shelter Fires Update – August 07, 2022

Fire Information Phone Line: 206-473-8645 (8am - 7pm)

Email: 2022.Windigo@firenet.gov

Potter Fire (& Shelter) InciWeb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8291/

Windigo Fire (& Big Swamp) InciWeb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8292/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Windigo-Fire-and-Potter-Fire-Information-109233838550715

Containment on the Windigo Fire increased to 15% as firefighters continued to make progress on all fires in the area. The incident command team is currently managing 237 sq. miles across the Umpqua, Willamette, Deschutes, and Fremont-Winema National Forests—which includes 27 known fires. Eight have active fire behavior. All 27 fires have resources assigned. Weather will challenge suppression efforts over the next few days as crews battle higher temperatures and dryer fuels. For firefighter and public safety, follow the Fire Closure Orders.

Yesterday, crews and heavy equipment successfully dug line around the entire perimeters of the Windigo and Potter Fires. Today, ground resources will continue to plumb, mop-up, hold and secure the fire line of the Windigo Fire. Firefighters on the Potter Fire will continue to develop and strengthen alternate and contingency lines. Air resources will support Initial Attack if any spot fires occur outside of the fire perimeters. Today, they will include eight Type 1 Helicopters and one Type 3, with 2 fixed-wing scoopers available out of Eugene.

The Big Swamp Fire grew an estimated 10-15 acres. Three handcrews, 2 engines, and multiple pieces of heavy equipment will be working on that fire today with more resources en route. The small fire near Big Swamp, named 210, is still .2 acres. Shelter Fire is still under 5 acres and is secure. An additional start began south of Potter Mountain, named 212, and is .5 acres. Crews will continue to secure fire line and search for remaining pockets of heat on the smaller fires.

Today’s weather changes are expected to increase fire behavior. High temperatures will reach 86-92 degrees. Wind direction will change midday and flow from a NW direction with speeds between 5-8 mph and gusts of up to 15 mph on ridge tops and valleys. Fire spotting distances may be up to ¼ - ½ mile with a 90% chance of ignition on the dry fuels. Smoke will be more visible today as unburned islands of green fuel burn within the interior of the fire perimeters; visit AirNow.gov for more information.

Help keep our firefighters and yourself safe by obeying the forest closures, avoiding the entire restricted area. A large closure area is necessary to ensure that firefighters can focus on managing the fire, not evacuating visitors, should conditions on the fire change rapidly.

Windigo Fire
Acreage: Approx. 1,052 acres            
Containment: 15%
Location: 20 miles southwest of La Pine, OR
Cause: Lightning

Potter Fire
Acreage: Approx. 185 acres  
Containment: 0%
Location: 8 miles northeast of Toketee Lake 
Cause: Lightning