Firefighters are continuing on working to suppress the ongoing Flat Fire. With active operations taking place on all sides of the incident. Firing operations on the southwest flank are currently underway, as crews continue to progress with firing operations on the southwestern flank, working south off Forest Road (FR) 3680.
A mobile retardant base has been set up to supply retardant to helicopters, providing crucial assistance to firefighters on the ground. Infrared detection technology is also being employed to help locate heat sources and guide firefighting efforts effectively.
The good news is that the fire has not impacted the Rogue River, and air quality in the area has been rated as good so far.
Safety remains a top priority, especially in the challenging terrain where crews are operating. Precautions are being taken to ensure the well-being of the firefighters throughout the ongoing operations.
For today’s activities, a combination of firing operations, mop up, patrolling, and structure assessment will be conducted. Crews are working on the southwestern flank, bringing fire west from Game Lake to connect with existing burnout operations.
Additionally, firing operations are planned for the northeast over the next few days, utilizing FR 3577 and FR 150 as control lines. A contingency group, which includes Coos Forest Protective Association firefighters, is also working on alternate containment lines and a fuel break on FR 1503.
Furthermore, Bear Camp Road is being prepared as an alternate line, and crews will be working along the road in the coming days.
A community meeting has been scheduled for Monday, July 31st, at 6:00 p.m. at Brookings High School’s cafeteria, located at 625 Pioneer Rd, Brookings, OR 97415. The meeting aims to provide residents with updates on the current situation and to address any concerns they may have.
The Curry County Sheriff’s Office has issued a Level 1 “Get Ready” evacuation notice for areas on the north side of the Rogue River in Agness up to Illahe Lodge. The evacuation notice also includes areas along the Rogue River Corridor from Quosatana Creek Campground to the Agness area, encompassing Spud Road, Old House Creek Road, and Oak Flat.
The area immediately east of Agness remains at Level 2, out of an abundance of caution.
Areas outside the burn area to the southwest will also maintain a Level 2 evacuation status while fire crews continue their efforts to further secure control lines. The Curry County Sheriff’s Office, in coordination with the Fire Incident Management Team, will keep residents informed of any changes to evacuation levels.
As part of the area closure, the Rogue-River Siskiyou National Forest has issued a closure order for trails, roads, and a portion of the Illinois River. Consequently, Oak Flat Campground, Game Lake Campground, Wild Horse Campground, and Snow Camp Lookout Recreation Rentals are temporarily closed.
Firefighting teams have the current array of resources on the incident, including:
- 51 engines
- 42 crews
- 8 bulldozers
- 32 water tenders
- 8 masticators
- 12 helicopters
- 1,736 total personnel
As of the latest assessment, the wildfire has encompassed an area of 24,951 acres, with containment currently at 14%.
The firefighting teams remain dedicated to combating the wildfire, and the community’s cooperation and vigilance during this time are greatly appreciated.
You can track this fire through our 2023 Wildfire Season partner’s Wildfire Aware app.
Source: RRNF
