BONANZA, Ore. – Wildland and structural firefighters spent the day coordinating efforts to expand initial control lines around the fire. Five task forces from the Oregon State Fire Marshal are also actively assessing and protecting homes near the fire. One of those structural task forces repositioned to the northeastern edge to begin accessing homes in close proximity to the fireline. Meanwhile, fire crews reached the top of Yainax Butte to safeguard critical communication infrastructure vital to the region and emergency responders.
Crews working the southeastern area of the fire reinforced fireline and plumbed additional firehose into the area, increasing water availability for suppression and mop-up activities. On the north flank of the fire helicopters were used to cool hotspots, allowing ground resources to strengthen fireline and extend the containment line to the north.
Repairs to the fiber optic line providing phone and internet service to areas east of the fire were completed today.
Tonight, firefighters will take advantage of cooler temperatures, increased humidity, and moderated winds to construct fireline directly adjacent to the fire’s edge. Firefighters patrolling in the southern portion of the fire will work to extinguish flames or visible smoke near the fireline. Crews will also be working to check for any spotfires outside the perimeter.
The fire is being managed under a Unified Command between the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s (OSFM) Red Incident Management Team and Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Incident Management Team 1.
The Klamath County Sheriff has implemented evacuations around the Elk Fire for public and resident safety. Residents are urged to stay informed about evacuation levels and be prepared to act quickly. For the latest evacuation information, please visit: https://protect.genasys.com/search
The American Red Cross shelter is open at:
Living Springs Church
31897 Mission Street
Bonanza, OR 97623
Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR): A “TFR” is in place at an altitude from the surface up to and including 6500 feet, daily (24 hours) until further notice. Complete information is available at https://tfr.faa.gov/tfr3/?page=detail_5_2600. Flying a drone near or around a wildfire compromises the safety of pilots and interferes with firefighting efforts.