Flat Fire
July 19, 2023
Morning Update
Flat Fire Quick Facts
Size: 12,756
Start Date: July 15, 2023
Point of origin: 2 miles south
east Agness, OR
Cause: Under Investigation
Total personnel: 516
Resources: 10 engines
17 crews
4 bulldozers
2 water tenders
6 masticators
7 helicopters
Community Meeting: 3pm today in Agness Library Park Agness, OR. More will be scheduled in the future with
virtual options.
Current Situation: The Flat Fire has spread toward Wild Horse Ridge up Lawson Creek on its west side. Dry
vegetation and winds have been the primary driver of this fire growth. Northeast winds have helped prevent
the fire from being able to grow to the north. Wind direction and control lines created by firefighters have
enabled crews to keep the fire from moving toward the community of Agness. Heavy smoke will continue to
affect nearby communities.
Today’s activities: Last night, firefighters had successful burnout operations in the northwest section and
these will continue today if conditions allow. Small burn out operations enable firefighters to consume
vegetation between them and the wildfire making firefighting safer and slowing fire spread protecting local
communities. On the northeast section of the fire, crews are working to improve roads to increase access
around the fire. On the north section, crews are strengthening firelines and using hoselines to protect the
community of Agness. Structure protection groups are in place working to protect buildings.
Evacuations: Please monitor the Curry and Josephine County Sheriff’s Offices for official evacuation notices.
https://www.co.curry.or.us/government/county_sheriff/index.php
https://www.josephinecounty.gov/government/sheriff/index.php
Weather: Red Flag warning is in effect in Southern Oregon because of gusty winds and low humidity.
Smoke: Smoke Forecast Outlooks are available at https://www.oregonsmoke.org/?m=1
Closures: The Rogue River Siskiyou National Forest has issued a closure order for the fire area including trails,
roads, and a portion of the Illinois River. Please be careful when driving in the area due to increased fire traffic.
Restrictions: Fire Restrictions are in place https://www.fs.usda.gov/rogue-siskiyou
Information Line: 541-216-4579 8am-8pm
