BONANZA, Ore. – As of this morning, the Elk Fire is estimated at 2,000 acres with 0% containment. Wildland and structural firefighting crews are working together to gather information; more accurate mapping is expected as work progresses along the fire perimeter.
Over the last two days neighboring structural resources from Klamath and Lake counties were mobilized to assist local resources with suppression activities for the fire. Given the fire’s rapid growth and the high fire potential in the area, the Governor signed a conflagration declaration at 12:07 p.m., authorizing the mobilization of structural resources under the Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM.)
Two OSFM structural task forces arrived last night, with three more arriving this morning to support suppression efforts. The mutual aid task forces from Klamath and Lake counties will return home today to protect their local communities.
Overnight operations focused on scouting and constructing fireline using both bulldozers and hand crews. Firefighters made steady progress despite challenging terrain and visibility.
Today, wildland and structural firefighters will be working together to secure existing containment lines, slow fire spread and protect homes, outbuildings, and key infrastructure in the area including a high-power transmission line to the east of the fire. Repairs to the fiber optic line providing internet and phone services east of the fire continue.
Additional firefighting resources are arriving throughout the day, allowing ground crews to engage the fire on multiple fronts.
Weather conditions today include temperatures in the upper 80s and breezy winds, which could contribute to increased fire activity.
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’s Office is overseeing evacuations in the affected area. 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.