Crews call efforts on Mt. Adams fire 'make-or-break' as winds pick up

Story Published: Jul 15, 2008 at 2:30 PM PDT

Story Updated: Jul 15, 2008 at 3:28 PM PDT
By KATU Web Staff Video

TROUT LAKE, Wash. - Firefighters battling the out-of-control Cold Springs Fire near Mount Adams said Tuesday was going to be a make-or-break day in the battle against the 8,000-acre blaze.

The fire is burning in forested wilderness, but the small town of Glenwood sits about 10 miles from the fire. Residents have been given instructions in case an evacuation is ordered.

Crews are digging fire lines in hopes of turning the fast-moving fire to the north toward the flanks of Mount Adams and away from the town.

But high winds are expected again Tuesday afternoon that could give firefighters more trouble. The National Weather Service issued Red Flag warnings for winds from 25 mph to 40 mph for the area where the fire is burning.

The warnings, in effect until Wednesday evening, stretch from central Oregon to northern Washington.

Firefighters think a lightning strike on June 29 sparked a small fire that smoldered unnoticed for several weeks until it was fanned by wind into dry fuels nearby.

Crews started fighting the fire when it was only several acres in size but strong winds helped spread the blaze to 500 acres on Sunday and then to 6,000 acres on Monday.

By Tuesday, the fire was more than 8,000 acres. No containment estimates have been issued. Over 400 people are battling the blaze with aircraft, heavy equipment and ground teams.