Flat Fire Containment Jumps to 10% as Aerial Missions Increase

In the ongoing battle against the Flat Fire, aerial resources have proven to be instrumental in reinforcing control measures along the southern perimeter. Helicopters have been strategically dropping retardant east of the Game Lake area, while also deploying buckets of water along the southeast perimeter to moderate the fire’s behavior and slow its eastward progression.

Taking advantage of favorable weather conditions, firefighters have used firing operations to secure additional control lines along Forest Road (FR) 3680, extending down to the Snow Camp area. To address a small spot fire with minimal activity off the southeastern edge of the main fire, four rappellers were deployed, aiming to suppress and mop up the fire directly along its edge.

As the night falls, the efforts will continue with rappellers working diligently to control the spot fire at the fire’s edge. If weather conditions permit, firefighters will carry out burnout operations along FR 3680, progressing southwards towards FR 402. Furthermore, resources will be dedicated to mopping up previously burned areas and extinguishing any heat sources that may exist further in from the control lines across the fire.

Amid the ongoing firefighting efforts, evacuation protocols remain in place to ensure the safety of residents. A Level 1 “Get Ready” evacuation notice remains in effect for areas on the north side of the Rogue River in Old Agness up to Illahe Lodge, as well as along the Rogue River Corridor from Quosatana Creek Campground to the Agness area. This includes specific areas like Spud Road, Old House Creek Road, and Oak Flat.

Additionally, the area immediately east of Agness remains at a Level 2 evacuation status, exercising caution due to the fire’s proximity. Some areas southwest of the burn zone will also remain at Level 2 status until fire crews can further secure control lines. The Curry County Sheriff’s Office will work closely with the Fire Incident Management Team to keep residents informed of any changes to evacuation levels.

Forecasted weather conditions present challenges as temperatures are expected to rise, and dry conditions prevail in the coming days. Winds are predicted to blow from the northeast to northwest, reaching gusts of approximately 20 mph.

Due to the ongoing fire activity, the Rogue River Siskiyou National Forest has issued a closure order for the fire-affected area, encompassing trails, roads, and a portion of the Illinois River. Various campgrounds, including Oak Flat, Game Lake, Wild Horse, and Snow Camp Lookout Recreation Rentals, are all closed as part of the area closure.

As of the latest update, the Flat Fire has consumed approximately 23,678 acres, and the firefighting effort involves a dedicated team of 1,644 personnel. Currently, the containment level stands at 10%, signifying the challenging nature of the wildfire and the ongoing work to bring it under control.

You can track this fire through our 2023 Wildfire Season partner’s Wildfire Aware app.