BLY, Ore. – Firefighters made great progress overnight on the Ponina Fire burning approximately 5 miles north of Beatty.
The fire is estimated to be approximately 1,400 acres with 10 percent containment. The cause is under investigation. The fire was reported yesterday around 2:30 p.m.
A local Type 3 Incident Management Team took over management of the Ponina Fire this morning.
Yesterday firefighters were assisted by two air tankers from San Bernardino that came up from California, which were a great help in the firefighting. Two local interagency Hotshot Crews will be starting work on the fire this morning. Additional resources will be on the fire today.
Two structures were lost. Evacuation levels have been dropped to Level 2 and area residents are able to return if they want but should be prepared to evacuate if conditions change. Evacuations are being conducted by Klamath County Sheriff’s Office.
Smoke is highly visible in the surrounding area, including Oregon State Highway 140. There will be increased fire traffic in the area, including on Hwy 140 and the Sycan Road. Travelers in the area should use caution, reduce speed and be prepared for possible delays.
The fire is burning in an area with narrow roads. The public is advised to avoid the fire area for public and firefighter safety.
Temperatures continue to be unseasonably warm and summer like. Relative humidity is expected to remain very low, in the teens. Fuels remain dormant and dry, meaning fire can carry quickly. The public is urged to use extreme caution with fire on private and wildlands, especially as the area is already seeing early wildfires.
Additional fire information available on our breaking news app.
