9/28/2017 Jones & Kelsey Creek Fire Update

Jones Fire / Kelsey Fire

9/28/2017 - 8 a.m.

Fire Information: (541) 937-5219

jonesfire2017@gmail.com

Jones Fire -    Size:  10,220 acres   Containment:  80%     Cause: Lightning

Kelsey Fire -   Size:  441 acres        Containment:  40%     Cause: Lightning

With the advent of the General Western Oregon Deer hunting season this Saturday, the Willamette National Forest urges hunters to familiarize themselves with the current road, trail and area closures associated with the numerous fires on the Forest.  These closures remain in effect due to firefighters and equipment still working within the closure areas and hazards presented by fire suppression efforts and fire weakened trees.  For firefighter and public safety, please respect these closures.  For further information on the closures on the Willamette National Forest go to:www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/willamette/alerts-notices

Yesterday’s Activity - Fire suppression repair continued on the Jones Fire with firefighters chipping roadside material, building waterbars on exposed firelines and hauling logs cut as hazard trees during the suppression efforts.  They also patrolled and monitored the southeast corner of the fire as warmer and dryer conditions increased the visibility of remaining smokes.  On the Kelsey Fire crews continued to secure the containment of established lines and began fireline repair work.

Today’s Operations - On the Jones Fire the felling of fire-weakened hazard trees and moving logs out of the way will continue.  Firefighters will continue to patrol and mop-up hot spots.  Crews will be repairing firelines and chipping operations will continue.  Crews will be at the Kelsey Fire continuing suppression repair work on the dozer and hand lines. 

Weather and Fire Behavior – The weather will once again be warm and dry with a gusty easterly flow in the morning, switching to the west in the afternoon. With the warm conditions, surface fuels will continue to dry and may support fire spread from an ignition source.  Some isolated interior re-burn is possible, and flare-ups are likely from jackpots of fuel. Heavy fuels will continue to be consumed.

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/

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

 For information on all Willamette National Forest Fires: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/unit/3860/