Flat Fire Still Burning, but Containment Increases

The Flat Fire, the largest of four wildfires presently burning in Oregon, has been actively fought by firefighters.

According to the U.S. Forest Service, the Flat fire, which is two miles southeast of Agness in Curry County, has burnt 24,951 acres as of Saturday morning and is 14% controlled, up from 4% contained on Thursday. Over 1,700 workers, including 51 engines, 42 crews, 8 bulldozers, 32 water tenders, 8 masticators, and 12 helicopters, are battling the blaze.

The fire was started by humans on July 15, though the precise cause is still unknown, according to officials. By September 1, according to the Northwest Interagency Coordination Center, the fire should be put out.

According to the Forest Service, workers are making progress today on the southwest edge, south of forest road 3680. Operations will be conducted on the northeastern side over the next three days, using forest roads 3577 and 150 as control lines.

The tweet below confirms the news:

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Flat fire partially contained in southern Oregon https://t.co/74w6dRJ3wA

— The Oregonian (@Oregonian) July 29, 2023

The Illinois River and a portion of the trails and roads in the fire region have been closed by the Rogue-River Siskiyou National Forest.

On the north bank of the Rogue River in Ages up to Illahe Lodge and along the Rogue River from Quosatana Creek Campground to the Agness area, Level 1 (be ready) evacuation orders are in force. Level 2 (get set) orders are in force for various regions to the southwest of the fire as well as the region directly east of Agness. On Everbridge, you can sign up for evacuation notifications.

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