According to the latest press release from U.S. Forest Service Tuesday morning, the Flat Fire continues to burn in the burn scars from the Biscuit and Klondike fires and has now consumed 8,204 acres since the fire was first reported Saturday afternoon.
Steep terrain and limited access points have hindered the over 350 firefighters and equipment from attacking the blaze as firecrews work around standing dead trees, snags, and thick vegetation within the burn scars.
Crews and equipment are also encountering steep terrain and limited access points as fire managers work to protect surrounding communities, and infrastructure.
Overnight, night crews were able to take advantage of more favorable conditions, however, weather conditions are still favorable for fire expansion and the fire is expected to continue to be active today from the Illinois River to the west, with spotting up to a 1/4 mile from the ridge tops as the fire continues to create heavy smoke in nearby communities.
Currently the U.S. Forest Service has deployed 16 Engines, 13 crews, 378 firefighters, 2 bulldozers, 2 water tenders and 7 helicopters, with more resources continuing to arrive over the next several days as fire crews continue to strengthen and create new firelines while looking for opportunities to use existing roads and bodies of water as natural fire breaks. Air resources will continue to be utilized as conditions and visibility allow.
The Flat Fire, high temperatures and fuel conditions has prompted the Coos Forest Protective Association to increase the fire danger level to “high” effective Tuesday, July 18, in Curry County, as strong winds and high temperatures continue.
