Firefighters battling the Flat Fire are continuing on work to ensure the safety of both their personnel and the public while striving to minimize the fire’s size. The current focus lies on employing firing operations in tandem with weather, vegetation, and topography conditions. Recent efforts have led to the completion of firing operations along the edge of Forest Road (FR) 3680, south of Game Lake, with a cautious pause following a low-heat discovery on the northeast flank through an infrared aerial assessment.
The Lobster Creek area’s structure assessment is now complete, while preparations are underway on alternate containment lines such as FR 3313, 1503, and 3680 on the west side and Burnt Ridge on the east side. Today’s activities encompass burnout operations on the southwestern side of the fire along the edge of FR 3680, strengthening the line to enhance containment efforts. The northern containment line is vigilantly patrolled and mopped up, and aerial resources are being deployed to identify and suppress heat on the northeast, east, and south flanks of the fire.
Due to fire traffic on Bear Camp Road, motorists are urged to exercise caution by slowing down, using headlights, and proceeding with care.
A community meeting is scheduled for Monday, July 31st, at 6:00 p.m. in the cafeteria of Brookings-Harbor High School, located at 625 Pioneer Rd, Brookings, OR 97415, providing residents with essential updates and information.
Evacuation notices are in effect for specific areas, with a Level 1 “Get Ready” evacuation notice issued for regions on the north side of the Rogue River in Agness up to Illahe Lodge and along the Rogue River Corridor from Quosatana Creek Campground to the Agness area. This includes Spud Road, Old House Creek Road, and Oak Flat.
Residents outside the burn area to the southwest will remain at Level 2 evacuation, ensuring control lines’ further security. The Curry County Sheriff’s Office continues to work closely with the Fire Incident Management Team to communicate any changes in evacuation levels to affected residents. Authorities remind the public of the persistently dry and hot conditions in Oregon and Washington, emphasizing adherence to all fire restrictions.
As dry and warm weather persists, a forecast of increased temperatures and winds on Monday necessitates continued awareness of current fire conditions.
Firefighting teams have the current array of resources on the incident, including:
- 53 engines
- 50 crews
- 8 bulldozers
- 35 water tenders
- 8 masticators
- 12 helicopters
- 1,941 total personnel
As of the latest assessment, the wildfire has encompassed an area of 25,572 acres, with containment currently at 14%.
The Flat Fire remains a priority for firefighting efforts and public safety, and communities in the region are encouraged to stay informed and follow guidance from authorities during this critical time.
You can track this fire through our 2023 Wildfire Season partner’s Wildfire Aware app.
Source: RRNF
