The Golden Fire, currently spanning 2,112 acres, is showing signs of being brought under control, with containment reaching 15% and significant progress made by the firefighting personnel. As of now, the estimated cost of battling the wildfire stands at $4.5 million.
The firefighting efforts have been formidable, with a total of 635 personnel actively working to combat the blaze. These dedicated individuals include 14 hand crews, 47 engines, 4 dozers, 14 water tenders, and 7 aircraft deployed to tackle the inferno.
In response to the fire’s threat, evacuation orders have been issued at different levels. The Level 3 (GO NOW) evacuation area has been reduced to a quarter-mile perimeter around the fire and its interior. Meanwhile, Level 2 (SET) evacuations encompass areas west of Bechdoldt Flat Rd, south of Racoon Lane, Jaguar Lane, and extending east 3-4 miles to the powerline corridor. Level 1 (READY) evacuations include areas west of Highway 140 to Golden Eagle Drive and north to Parrot Drive, putting 317 structures at risk.
Recent developments indicate that crews have been successful in lining the fire perimeter, allowing them to achieve partial containment. Throughout the night, mop-up operations were conducted diligently to identify and address any lingering hot spots. Today, the focus remains on securing, enhancing, and maintaining control lines, while also continuing mop-up operations with the ultimate aim of achieving 100% containment.
As a result of effective mop-up operations, electric utility contractors and fiber optic employees are now granted access to safely restore connectivity to residents in the affected areas over the coming days.
Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) resources have played a vital role in the firefighting efforts. They have expanded mop-up to a 50-foot radius around structures and supported wildland partners. This morning, three task forces are set to conclude their work, while three structural task forces will continue to be assigned to the fire. All remaining OSFM task forces and the Incident Management Blue Team are scheduled to return to their home agencies tomorrow.
Authorities from the Klamath County Sheriff’s Office have ruled out a marijuana grow as the cause of the Golden Fire, though investigations into the fire’s origin are ongoing.
In light of the intensity of the situation, fire officials recently held a meeting at Bonanza School, where approximately 125 attendees were present. The involvement and support of the community have been appreciated by the Incident Management Teams, and attendees expressed their gratitude for the swift and dedicated response of local agencies, OSFM, the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) resources, and wildland fire partners.
As the firefighting efforts continue, authorities remain focused in managing the situation and working towards complete containment of the Golden Fire. The safety of residents and the preservation of structures and natural resources remain paramount priorities for the firefighting personnel.
You can track this fire through our 2023 Wildfire Season partner’s Wildfire Aware app.
Source: ODF
