Containment Jumps to 28% as Flat Fire Passes 31,000 Acres

Helicopters are playing a vital role in the ongoing battle against the Flat Fire in Oregon’s southwest corner. Aerial ignition operations have been underway to extend the containment line further into the unburned interior, aiming to minimize the risk of re-ignition.

As the fuels continue to dry out, fire behavior has changed, with some areas experiencing fire backing down slopes and natural fuels aligning on lower slopes, resulting in uphill runs. This, however, leads to better overall consumption of unburned vegetation, reducing the chances of subsequent re-burning.

Firefighters have also employed aerial ignition techniques in the Game Lake area to enhance the depth of burned fuels from containment lines. Additionally, a helitack crew was dispatched via helicopter to the Fantz Ranch area along the eastern edge of the fire to address areas of detected heat using infrared photography/imaging, aiming to control fire movement in that direction.

Furthermore, a section of increased interior heat in the north fork of Indigo Creek is closely monitored by firefighters. They are utilizing helicopter bucket drops as necessary to secure the existing containment line.

In a collaborative effort, structure protection resources are using both vehicles and aircraft to locate and identify additional homes and buildings. Collected data will aid firefighters in safeguarding structures, should the need arise.

Today’s activities include the planned completion of aerial ignition efforts to achieve additional fireline depth between the western and eastern portions of Forest System Road (FSR) 3680 in the Lawson Creek drainage, specifically targeting the southwestern corner of the fire. Aerial interior burning in the Game Lake area will continue based on favorable time and weather conditions. In areas with sparse vegetation, a heli-torch will be deployed to increase fuels consumption and overall burn effectiveness. The helitack crew will perform additional checks in the Fantz Ranch area.

Efforts are underway to actively mop up and patrol the western and northern containment lines, from the junction of FSR 3680 and 3318 to Wildhorse Lookout east to FSR 3577. Additionally, the northeast corner of the fire, utilizing FSR 2308 and 150, has been fully prepared for potential firing operations if needed, depending on weather conditions and fire activity.

In light of increased fire traffic on Bear Camp Road, all motorists are urged to exercise caution, slow down, and use headlights for safety.

Please note that the our evening fire update has been discontinued as officials believe it is no longer needed and will not be providing direct information any longer.

Evacuation levels have been reduced to Level 1 “Get Ready” for all areas near the Flat Fire. The Curry County Sheriff’s Office will continue to work in close coordination with the Fire Incident Management Team and notify residents of any changes in evacuation status.

Today’s weather forecast indicates slightly cooler temperatures, down by 1-3 degrees, and higher relative humidity, up by 1-3%. While the recent weather cycle has somewhat moderated fire behavior, the overall fuels are continuing to dry. A warmer and drier air mass is anticipated to return by the upcoming weekend, warranting continued vigilance in firefighting efforts.

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