9/23/2017 Jones & Kelsey Fire Update

Jones Fire / Kelsey Fire

9/23/2017 - 8 a.m.

Fire Information: (541) 937-5219

jonesfire2017@gmail.com

Jones Fire -     Size:  10,220 acres   Containment:  75%   Cause: Lightning

Kelsey Fire -   Size: 441 acres       Containment:  15%     Cause: Lightning

At this morning’s operational briefing, Incident Commander Eric Knerr reminded firefighters that even though there has been significant rain this week, “there is still potential on each of these fires due to normal episodic east wind events that frequently occur this time of year.  We need to continue to work to protect those values at risk that could be threatened by both the Jones and Kelsey Fires.”

Yesterday’s Activity - On the Jones Fire hotshot crews completed constructing fireline south of FR 18 in the Marine Creek drainage. Chipping operations continued along primary containment lines (roads) around the fire.  Firefighters continued to haul unnecessary equipment back from the fireline.  On the Kelsey Fire, crews removed safety hazards along FR 2408 to improve access to the fire, and began felling snags to provide a safe working environment for crews to re-engage suppression efforts.  Helicopter water drops were employed to cool off hot spots in the bottom of the Kelsey Creek drainage.

Today’s Operations - Firefighters on the Jones Fire will continue to brush and chip primary containment lines (roads), mop up, and remove excess equipment.   On the Kelsey Fire, hotshot crews will begin building fireline on the southwest flank of the fire.  Rapellers will be inserted on the southeast corner of the fire to construct a helispot to support future suppression operations.  Helicopters will again be available to do bucket work as needed. 

Weather and Fire Behavior – A slow warming and drying trend will occur into early next week under a high pressure pattern.  Winds will be light, with fog in the morning and temperatures in the mid 60’s during the day.   Fire behavior will include smoldering of heavy forest fuels (logs, stumps, deep duff).  These heavy fuels will continue to be consumed and hold heat until late into the Fall/Winter.   

Closures:  Forest visitors should familiarize themselves with the area closure orders before venturing into the vicinity.  See below for detailed maps at: 

·         Jones Fire - https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/closures/5494/

·         Kelsey Fire - https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/closures/5619/

·         All Willamette National Forest Fires: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/unit/3860/

·         Forest Closure Information (Roads, Campgrounds, Trails): https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/willamette/alerts-notices