Bear Flat Fire currently burning in Klamath River Canyon

Submitted photo

Submitted photo

BEAR FLAT FIRE DETAILS

Cause:
Under investigation

Size:
50 Acres

Containment: 0%

Location:
Klamath River Canyon 9 Miles SW of Keno, Ore.

Initial Report:
September 13, 2021

Coverage of the 2021 Wildfire Season is brought to you by Ace Towing.

KENO, Ore. – The Bear Flat Fire was discovered this afternoon in the Klamath River Canyon between Frain Ranch and Klamath River Campgrounds, approximately 9 miles southwest of Keno.

The fire is burning on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Lakeview District and moving towards Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) protected lands.  It is currently estimated to be 50 acres and the cause is under investigation.

The Bear Flat Fire was discovered by a commercial airline and called in at 3:57 p.m.  Klamath Falls ODF Engine 8151 spotted the fire at 4:06 p.m. on the northwest side of the Klamath River.

The fire is burning with a high rate of spread in steep, inaccessible terrain and heavy timber.  It is moving up the canyon, to the northwest. 

There are four engines on scene, as well as two helicopters, two heavy air tankers out of Medford, and two single-engine air tankers.  More resources are on their way to the fire or on order, including engines, dozers, hand crews, water tenders, and additional air resources.

Campgrounds in the area are closed and the public is asked to stay out of the recreation area.  Area residents and visitors are also asked to avoid Topsy Grade Road due to increased traffic from wildland firefighting equipment.

Fire danger remains “Extreme” in Lake and Klamath counties.  Extremely dry fuels and seasonal winds can make even a small spark rapidly grow into a large wildfire. 

The public is responsible for ensuring that they have reviewed and are aware of the restrictions in place for the landscape they plan to recreate or work on.  For all agencies, violation of these prohibitions could result in citations, fines, and even imprisonment, depending on the agency and order. 

The latest restrictions and regulations, including for ODF and the federal agencies are available at https://scofmp.org/restrictions.shtml.


Klamath Falls News & Cascade Firewatch’s coverage of the 2021 Wildfire Season is brought to you by Ace Towing.

Ace Towing offers 24-hour emergency roadside assistance, collision towing, jump starts, lockouts, fuel, and tire changes. They also make automotive keys and program fobs too. 541-884-9388.

We are currently looking for additional sponsors for coverage of the 2021 Fire Season. Would your business like to sponsor our coverage of the 2021 Wildfire Season? Send us a note at klamathfallsnews.org/contact for more information.