The fire is 14 miles from Sisters and was stopped about 3.5 miles from Black Butte Ranch.
Here's a map:
<http://www.pnw3.com/bandbcomplex/maps/progression_maps/ fire_progression_1_090403_800.jpg>
The reddish areas are the forests that burned just in the last three days (not counting today). The total fire area is roughly 16 miles wide by 18 miles north to south. The squiggly blue line on the right side of the map is the Metolius River. Fire is at 83,000 acres and 40% containment.
Fire officials are very worried about Saturday's weather forecast which calls for thunderstorms and turbulent, violent winds. Sunday we may get some light rain.
Overall, particular in the wilderness, this fire will be beneficial in the long run. But despite burning over the main highway between Bend and the Wilamette Valley, only a few cabins have been lost to the fire so far. Camp Sherman was evacuated yesterday for the second time, and the Wizard Falls Fish Hatchery is threatened.
Here's a recent online story about this, if anyone is interested. <http://bend.com/news/ar_view%5E3Far_id%5E3D11357.htm>
Been the hottest, smokiest summer in memory here in Bend...will not be sad to see it pass into history.
Wes Wada Bend, Oregon
