The Rail fire has expanded to 28,209 acres and is 20-percent contained, according to a Thursday update from the management team.

The large, pyro-cumulus clouds seen over the fire Wednesday afternoon were caused by accelerated burnout operations.

However, the fire jumped control lines before the burnout operation was able to reach the southern end of the line, resulting in a spot fire establishing itself at 75 acres near Elk Flats. The spot fire has been contained but distracted crews from focusing on the main fire.

Other spot fires arose but were contained.

“Several spot fires were slowed with the use of helicopters and air tankers to the point crews could catch them,” Air Operations Branch Director Rob Budge said. “Our air attack made every effort to protect the investment previously made in establishing the lines.”

Budge expressed appreciation for cooperation shown by Oregon Department of Forestry in sharing its John Day-based helicopter.

Firefighters were able to remove fuels around the Elkhorn communication site, saving it when fires approached on Wednesday.

Smoke from the fire blocked the sun and cooled locations as far as Baker City.

Currently staffing the Rail Fire are 934 people: 29 crews, 41 engines, five dozers, 29 water tenders, four masticators, five skidders and six helicopters.

For more information, call (541) 446-3592.