09-21-17 Chetco Bar Fire Update

09-21-17 Chetco Bar Fire Update

Intermittent rain showers and lower temperatures contributed minimal fire activity on Wednesday. The combination of higher humidity and cooler temperatures kept fire behavior in the upper Pistol River, upper Winchuck River, and the Illinois River south of Deadman Bar to smoldering and creeping. Fire crews utilized this opportunity to conduct patrols identifying areas for mop up and continued fire suppression rehabilitation work.

Chipping slash and equipment recovery continued as part of ongoing efforts to remediate containment lines for the upcoming fall rains. These operations along with the installation of water bars will help to properly direct runoff from rainstorms, preventing erosion and possible landslides.

Light western winds combined with showers and smoldering fire activity has limited smoke impact for local communities. This as lead to substantially improved air quality and visibility throughout Southwest Oregon.

Closures and Evacuations:

On September 19, 2017 at 6:00 pm, Josephine County lifted their evacuation orders for areas affected by the Chetco Bar Fire. No evacuation orders are in effect for Curry County. Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest and Bureau of Land Management Coos Bay District road and area closures remain in effect. These areas are closed to all access and effect public lands within and adjacent to the Chetco Bar Fire area.

For further information visit: https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/rogue- siskiyou/alerts-notices

Weather: Thursday is expected to be mostly cloudy with rains. Mountain areas are projected to receive another half inch to inch of rain. Clear skies and temperatures gradually warming to near 80 are expected starting Friday and through the weekend. Winds will remain light.

Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFR) are in effect over the Chetco Bar Fire area. For more information see: http://tfr.faa.gov/