6/27/2017 Gerber Fire Update

KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. – Lakeview District Bureau of Land Management is actively working two lightning-caused fires in the Gerber Recreation Area. A third reported early this morning was still being assessed.

The 194-acre Gerber Flat Fire was reported early Monday afternoon, followed shortly by the Bear Fire, which was last reported to be 12.5 acres.

Crews were fully engaged in suppression efforts until lightning forced them to seek shelter about 10 p.m. A Type 1 helicopter made several water drops on the southern boundary of the fire, which was too rugged for ground crews or equipment to access. An engine monitored the perimeter throughout the night.

A 3-mile segment of Gerber Road was closed Monday evening due to smoke limiting visibility. The road was re-opened about 8 p.m.

With today’s cooler temperatures and expected reduction in wind velocity, crews are expected to continue securing the outer edges and begin mopping up.

For more information, please contact Fire Information Officer Sarah Saarloos with the South Central Oregon Fire Management Partnership at 541-219-0515 or ssaarloos@fs.fed.us.

Online fire information: https://scofmp.blogspot.com Twitter @scofmpfireinfo and SCOFMP Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/scofmpfireinfo/.