Flat Fire Grows to 21,971 Acres as Containment Reaches 5%

Sisters, Oregon- Fire crews working on the Flat Fire northeast of Sisters reported progress overnight, but officials warned Monday that conditions remain volatile as the blaze continues to threaten homes and communities.

As of Monday morning, the fire had burned an estimated 21,971 acres and was 5% contained. The wildfire is burning about two miles northeast of Sisters.

Cooler overnight temperatures slowed fire activity, allowing crews to strengthen containment lines, patrol for hot spots, and knock down flare-ups along the eastern, southeastern and western edges. In the south and southwest, firefighters fully contained a 10-acre slop-over that occurred late Sunday.

On Monday, crews are focused on holding those gains, reinforcing lines, and protecting homes. Structure protection teams remain stationed in neighborhoods threatened by the fire.

Despite light rain in the area, fuels remain dry. The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning through 9 p.m. Monday, along with a heat advisory lasting until Wednesday. Forecasters said thunderstorms could bring strong, gusty winds that may fan flames.

Officials confirmed that four homes and six outbuildings have been destroyed in Deschutes County, while one home and another structure have been damaged. Hundreds of additional homes remain standing, which fire officials credited to defensible space efforts by property owners and the aggressive work of firefighters. Damage assessments are ongoing, and property owners will be notified as structures are identified.

Evacuation levels 1, 2, and 3 remain in effect in parts of Deschutes and Jefferson counties. A 24-hour Red Cross evacuation shelter has been opened at Highland Baptist Church in Redmond. Large animals are being accepted at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds in Madras and the Kerley Horse Center in Powell Butte.

Road closures include:

Wilt Road at Camp Polk Road Panoramic Drive at Camp Polk Road Goodrich Road north of Highway 126 Holmes Road north of Fadjur Lane

The Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service urged the public to avoid the fire area for firefighter safety. Temporary flight restrictions remain in place, and officials reminded the public that flying drones near wildfires is illegal and endangers firefighting aircraft.