Flat Fire grows to 33,000 acres, Level 1 evacuation status remains in place

AGNESS, Ore. — Helicopters conducted more water drops yesterday to reduce fire activity. Smaller fuels are burning, but brush is still slow to ignite, which limits the ability of the fire to spread. Wednesday and Thursday will be cooler with slightly higher humidities before temperatures rise over the weekend. Firefighters remain ready for any potential changes in fire activity.

Level 1 “Get Ready” evacuation status remains in place for areas in the vicinity of the Flat Fire.

Smoke may be seen from hotspots in the southwestern portion of the fire – the hotspots are well within the containment line. Fire crews continue to assess and improve existing and alternate containment lines. All motorists are asked to use caution when driving in the fire area – please slow down, use headlights, and watch for oncoming traffic.

Temperatures will be slightly cooler Wednesday with moist conditions over the fire area. Winds will be similar to Tuesday with a west-northwesterly flow in the afternoon. Thursday’s weather is expected to be almost a repeat of Wednesday. Higher temperatures and lower humidity will begin moving in Friday.

The Flat Fire has burned 33,811 acres and is 39% contained, with total personnel at 812 as well as:

• 23 crews
• 20 engines
• 4 bulldozers
• 27 water tenders
• 9 masticators
• 7 helicopters

Smoke continues to pool during the morning in the valleys near Agness, OR, which may create a few hours of MODERATE air quality. Otherwise, GOOD air quality is expected across the Outlook area. By the weekend, hazy conditions are expected with the arrival of unseasonably hot temperatures.

The Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest (RRSNF) has issued a closure order for the fire area including trails, roads and a portion of the Illinois River. Oak Flat Campground, Game Lake and Wild Horse Campgrounds and Snow Camp Lookout Recreation Rentals are all closed. The Chetco River Road (FSR 1376) and Chetco/Pistol River Road (FSR 1407) are closed. The closure allows for public access to the Big Rock swimming hole on the Illinois River.