Elk Fire Holding Steady Within Footprint, ODF Team 1 Assumes command of the Hagelstein Fire
BONANZA, Ore. – Oregon Department of Forestry fire crews working on the Elk Fire continue to make strong progress, with the fire holding within its current footprint for several consecutive days. On-the-ground fire activity remains low, and containment efforts are steadily advancing.
Last night, Oregon Department of Forestry crews experienced a low humidity recovery, which helped identify and address areas of residual heat. Firefighters successfully conducted a small-scale burnout operation in unburned areas between the main fire and containment lines, further securing the perimeter.
Firefighters assigned to the Elk Fire remain on high alert and are prepared to respond rapidly to any new fire starts in Klamath and Lake counties. These pre-identified resources responded rapidly to the new start north of Klamath Falls, on Hagelstein Mountain.
The Hagelstein Fire which started yesterday evening is burning approximately 14 miles north of Klamath Falls near Highway 97.
The fire is currently burning on private land protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry and the Fremont-Winema National Forest. The cause is under investigation.
Oregon Department of Forestry’s Incident Management Team assigned the Elk Fire assumed command of the Hagelstein fire at 6 a.m. this morning. The team is now managing both the Elk and Hagelstein fires, continuing to provide critical support to local districts currently stretched thin due to ongoing wildfire activity.
Highway 97 near the entrance to Hagelstein on the 9718 road is experiencing heavy fire traffic, and drivers are urged to use caution when traveling through the area. Please avoid the fire area to allow fire crews safe and unobstructed access.
Today’s weather is expected to mirror yesterday’s conditions, with high temperatures and gusty winds continuing under a heat advisory. Firefighters are urged to remain vigilant and avoid complacency. “We’ve maintained an outstanding safety record on this incident,” said the Oregon Department of Forestry Incident Safety Officer, Jeremy Hall. “Let’s keep doing the right things. There’s still a lot of work ahead.”
The Klamath County Sheriff has implemented evacuations around the Elk fire. For the latest evacuation information, please visit: https://protect.genasys.com/search
A temporary flight restriction remains in place Federal Aviation Administration – Graphic TFRs over both incidents.
