Ponina Fire 60 percent contained, remains under investigation
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The #PoninaFire burns under high voltage transmission lines north of Beatty, Oregon. April 18, 2021. (Image: Brian Gailey / Klamath Falls News)
BLY, Ore. – Firefighters continue to make excellent progress on the Ponina Fire burning approximately 5 miles north of Beatty. The fire is 1,641 acres and 60 percent contained. The cause is under investigation. The fire was reported Sunday around 2:30 p.m.
The fire is fully lined and mop-up activities are continuing today. Firefighters were able to start repair work yesterday and will continue that work today.
The fire is burning in timber and brush with creeping and smoldering fire behavior. There is interior smoke.
There are 16 engines, two dozers and two water tenders working on the fire. The local Type 3 Incident Management Team will be transitioning the Ponina Fire back to the local Oregon Department of Forestry Unit today at 6 p.m.
#PoninaFire map from April 19, 2021. Click for larger.
Weather conditions will be warmer and drier through Friday with gusty winds in the afternoons and evenings.
Evacuation levels have been dropped to Level 1. Area residents are still in the “Get Ready” phase. This means there is a hazard in the area, monitor the situation, pack valuables and an emergency supply kit and assist neighbors as needed. Evacuations are being conducted by Klamath County Sheriff’s Office.
Smoke will remain visible in the surrounding area for the next few days, 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.
The Type 3 Incident Management Team would like to thank the local communities and residents for all of their support and cooperation during the Ponina Fire.
Fuels remain dormant and dry, meaning fire can carry quickly. High winds are expected in the coming days which can lead to spotting and rapid fire spread even from a small fire like a campfire. The public is urged to use extreme caution with fire on private and wildlands, especially as the area is already seeing early wildfires.
PONINA FIRE DETAILS
Cause:
Under Investigation
Size:
1,641 acres (approx)
Containment: 60%
Location:
5 miles northeast of Beatty
Evacuation:
Level 1
Personnel
Management: Type 3 IMT
Dozers: 2
Engines: 16
Tender: 2
Fuel:
Timber and brush
Structures lost: 7