8/13/2017 Flounce Fire Update

ODF IMT 1 BILL HUNT, INCIDENT COMMANDER MORE INFORMATION:     FACEBOOK.COM/ODFSOUTHWEST                                              SWOFIRE.COM                                               INCIWEB.NWCC.GOV/INCIDENT/5477/# FLOUNCE FIRE August 13, 2017 9:00 a.m. Shady Cove, Oregon – Firefighters continued to make progress on the Flounce Fire, helped in part by slightly cooler temperatures, somewhat higher relative humidity and reduced lightning activity. Ground personnel made significant gains reinforcing line around the fire and also focused on mopping up hot areas around the perimeter. Reduced fire starts in the region also meant fewer resources were needed to assist the Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Southwest Oregon District and its cooperators on other fires. The fire remains at 690 acres and is now 60 percent contained. There are currently no evacuation orders in place. Southwest Oregon is slowly emerging from a period of extreme fire weather, characterized by high temperatures, low humidity, and dry lightning accompanied by unpredictable winds. These conditions have challenged fire managers and taxed resources. Crews have worked long hours to address new fire starts. Resources brought in to assist with the Flounce Fire have freed up local crews to focus on these new starts. Even though weather conditions have improved slightly, fire danger remains extreme throughout Southwest Oregon, with fire ignition potential at historical levels. Approximately 766 personnel are currently assigned to the Flounce Fire. The 32 hand crews assigned to the fire are also being supported with 9 helicopters, 27 engines, 21 water tenders and 6 dozers. To stay current on any changes in fire activity, follow us on social media at Facebook.com/ODFsouthwest.   ###