Single Publication

Flat Fire - July 19, 2023 - Morning Update

Flat Fire Quick Facts

Size: 12,756                                             

Start Date:  July 15, 2023

Point of origin: 2 miles south east Agness, OR

Cause: Under Investigation

Total personnel: 516

Resources: 10 engines, 17 crews, 4 bulldozers, 2 water tenders, 6 masticators, 7 helicopters

Community Meeting: 3pm today in Agness Library Park Agness, OR. More will be scheduled in the future with virtual options.

Current Situation: The Flat Fire has spread toward Wild Horse Ridge up Lawson Creek on its west side. Dry vegetation and winds have been the primary driver of this fire growth. Northeast winds have helped prevent the fire from being able to grow to the north. Wind direction and control lines created by firefighters have enabled crews to keep the fire from moving toward the community of Agness. Heavy smoke will continue to affect nearby communities.

Today’s activities: Last night, firefighters had successful burnout operations in the northwest section and these will continue today if conditions allow. Small burn out operations enable firefighters to consume vegetation between them and the wildfire making firefighting safer and slowing fire spread protecting local communities. On the northeast section of the fire, crews are working to improve roads to increase access around the fire. On the north section, crews are strengthening firelines and using hoselines to protect the community of Agness. Structure protection groups are in place working to protect buildings.

Evacuations: Please monitor the Curry and Josephine County Sheriff’s Offices for official evacuation notices. https://www.co.curry.or.us/government/county_sheriff/index.php https://www.josephinecounty.gov/government/sheriff/index.php

Weather: Red Flag warning is in effect in Southern Oregon because of gusty winds and low humidity.

Smoke: Smoke Forecast Outlooks are available at https://www.oregonsmoke.org/?m=1

Closures: The Rogue River Siskiyou National Forest has issued a closure order for the fire area including trails, roads, and a portion of the Illinois River. Please be careful when driving in the area due to increased fire traffic.

Restrictions: Fire Restrictions are in place https://www.fs.usda.gov/rogue-siskiyou                                             

Information Line: 541-216-4579 8am-8pm                                               Media inquires: 541-237-6369 8am-8pm

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flatfireoregon2023 Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlatFireOR2023

Inciweb: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident-information/xx1002-flat-fire  Email: 2023.flat.or@firenet.gov