The Klondike Fire, burning now since July 15th, has now consumed over 146,498 Acres. Fire officials are reporting that the blaze is 72% contained and burning primarily in the footprint of the 2002 Biscuit Fire and in the Kalmiopsis Wilderness. Portions of the fire are contained by previously burned areas including the Chetco Bar Fire of 2017.
Higher relative humidity over the fire area on Saturday reduced fire activity compared to Friday. The same three primary areas around the fire perimeter with active burning were near Horse Sign Creek, near the confluence of Indigo Creek and the Illinois River, and in the Slim Creek drainage at the north end of the fire.
Two areas of active burning that are farther from containment lines are Montana Springs and in the Chance Creek drainage. The fire growth identified by the infrared flight was 460 acres.
Having a more secure containment line at the north end of the Slim Creek/Indigo Creek drainages will provide a “catcher’s mitt” – a secure place to stop fire if it moves north in this critical area.
Air resources are critical to minimizing fire growth in steep ground with poor access. Once the north point is secure, the 7 helicopters dropping water on the fire will be able to focus entirely on the areas of primary concern south of Agness.
A Red Flag Warning will go into effect at 11:00 pm for strong northeast winds and poor humidity recoveries for mid-slopes and ridges tonight. There is a rapidly drying air mass, and temperatures are forecast to reach to the 70s today and forecast for the high 80s over the fire area later this week.
Brookings and other areas southwest of the fire can expect more smoke impacts over the next few days.
Firefighters are keeping a close eye on fire activity west of the Illinois River near Miami Bar. This persistent fire moved only slightly in the past 24 hours and is well within the containment lines; it poses very little risk of escape. Removal of large woody material from firelines and hazardous tree felling is progressing well on the north end of the zone.
The operational focus will shift to the south part of the zone over the next several days. Crews and equipment are repairing firelines and preparing the disturbed ground for eventual winter weather. With very warm and dry weather forecast through mid-week, the public can expect to see more frequent smoke columns from well within the fire. Firefighters are maintaining a strong force to respond to any increased fire activity or new fire starts.
Please Like, Share and Follow the …
