Here’s what Nick at Walker Wifi sent out this morning:

Key take away:
There will be back burning today by the fire fighters which will contribute to the smoke.

The commander made a point for people to not be alarmed by this.

I have received feedback of appreciation for the update emails so will continue to send them out as I learn information that I believe is meaningful. It does surprise me how much of the information i is scattered and often outdated.

I was able to watch a recording of the incident command briefing this morning (video posted on Fox 10 news web site) so the information is coming pretty direct.

Evacuation orders have been lifted for the Dewey-Humbolt area west of highway 69. Highway 69 is open.

Evacuation orders remain in effect for Breezy Pines, Walker, Potato Patch and nearby areas.

There is still a lot of focus and effort being applied to the north flank of the fire which is mostly up on Big Bug Mesa (with Breezy Pines to the immediate north). They have bulldozers cutting in major fire line (plus a contingent line) and crews are working directly on the fire lines. Helicopters provide water and slurry support for the ground crews. This “hands-on” work depends on wind and fire behavior which has been in our favor. While progress continues, there is still quite a bit of active fire in this area that has a very high fuel load (lots of trees/shrubs close together)..

The fire is still a ways from Walker and they are actively working on it. There are a lot of resources being applied and this part of getting the fire completely contained is difficult, tedious and very hard work.

NOTE (announced): There will be back burning today by the fire fighters which will contribute to the smoke. The commander made a point for people to not be alarmed by this.

Based on how the evacuation orders have been lifted for Mayer, then Dewey-Humbolt, and how long after the fire passed, I would guess (strictly my guess) that Walker will remain in mandatory evacuation all of tomorrow, and probably Monday, if not into Tuesday and Wednesday. Until the fire line has been out for a couple days and cooled down I don’t think they will open things up.

My summary opinion: Walker will continue to be safe as long as the winds cooperate (still praying), but don’t expect to be back in your homes until midweek some time. Please be patient as this will continue to be a long haul.

Regards,
Nick Wold
Walker Wifi