8/10/2017 Rebel Fire Update

Location: McKenzie River Ranger District, Three Sisters Wilderness, Rebel Creek drainage

Start Date: August 4, 2017

Size: 900 acres

Containment: 0% 

Cause: Under investigation

Vegetation: Dense mixed conifer forest. 

Incident Commander: Ricky Cox

Resources: 3 crews, 2 falling teams, 7 engines, 1 water tender, and other fire personnel with a total of 135.

Summary: Firefighter have completed 5 miles of preparations along Forest Road 19 and will continue these preparations (falling dead standing trees, removing lower limbs, small trees and underbrush) so that Forest Service Road (FSR) 19 may serve as the west containment line of the fire. Due to the fires location and current resistance to control, the Rebel Fire is expected to be a long term event, and will continue to burn until significant moisture eliminates fire growth potential.

The Willamette National Forest will be announcing updated fire closures and fire restrictions later today.

Smoke will continue to be most noticeable in the evening until morning, as smoke flows down into canyons, drainages, and basins. Smoke can irritate your respiratory system, intensify chronic heart and lung problems. If you are having health effects from smoke exposure, stay inside or get to an area with better air quality. See your doctor or healthcare professional as needed. For more information and daily air quality updates in Lane County see: http://www.lrapa.org/

Current Fire information can be found at https://inciweb.nwcg.gov