Firefighters make good progress despite challenging weather conditions

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Flames burn sagebrush and juniper inside the #CutoffFire near Bonanza, Oregon. June 20, 2021. (Image: Brian Gailey, Klamath Falls News)

Flames burn sagebrush and juniper inside the #CutoffFire near Bonanza, Oregon. June 20, 2021. (Image: Brian Gailey, Klamath Falls News)

Fire Details

Cause:
Under investigation

Start date/time:
6/18/21, 1:29 PM

Size:
1,150 Acres

Containment: 10%

Location:
6 Miles north of Bonanza, Oregon.

Resources:
Personnel - 250
Hand crews - 4
Engines - 18
Dozers - 3
Water Tenders - 7
Other Equipment - 2

Assigned aircraft: 9

Structures:
Threatened - 125
Damaged - Undetermined
Destroyed - Undermined

Fuels:
Timber & grass

Fire team:
Oregon Department of Forestry, IMT 1

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

BONANZA, Ore. - Despite the forecast for challenging winds the Cutoff Fire experienced no new growth and the fire stayed within its established footprint. On the northern portion of the fire, firefighters began mop-up operations and strengthened control lines. Several helicopters dropped water on the southern portion of the fire where winds and dry fuel conditions caused more active fire behavior.

This evening, night resources will continue to monitor for thunderstorms which are forecast to develop into the early morning hours. These passing storms could bring wetting rains and hail directly under the cells.  Gusty and erratic winds are associated with thunderstorm activity.  Crews are also prepared to respond if new starts materialize from the passing storms. The current Red Flag Warning expires at 12:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 23. 

At noon on June 21, 2021, Klamath County Emergency Management and Klamath County Sheriff’s Office, under recommendation of the Incident Commander for the Cutoff Fire, reduced the Evacuation Level 3 area (GO NOW) to Level 2 (GET SET).  The current evacuation recommendations are:

Level 2 (GET SET)
East of Bly Mountain Cutoff Rd, North to Grizzly Ln, West of Hummingbird Dr, and Forest Service Rd 3812 South three miles past Keno Springs Rd.

Level 1 (GET READY)
East of Bly Mountain Cutoff Rd, North to Hwy 140 and Kingfisher Dr, West of Hummingbird Dr, South to Grizzly Ln.

While evacuation levels were reduced, there is still significant danger in the area. Residents should be aware of the possibility of down powerlines, damaged trees at risk of falling, and other dangers. Roads in the fire area remain closed to all but emergency vehicles and residents only. Firefighting equipment traffic will continue to be heavy in the fire area. Klamath County Sheriff’s Office will also continue patrols in the area.

ODF Incident Management Team 1 will be holding a public meeting tomorrow, June 22 at 7:00 p.m.  Members of the community are invited to join us at Bonanza Big Springs Park, 300 Main Street. A live stream will be available via Facebook live. In the case of severe weather please join us on the Facebook page for a virtual presentation.  

Map of the #CutoffFire as of June 21, 2021. [click to enlarge]
Additional fire maps, kfnews.org/wildfire-maps-2af38c

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.