9/13/2022 Van Meter Fire Update

 

 Klamath Falls, Ore. – Containment has grown to 60 percent on the Van Meter Fire 13 miles southeast of Klamath Falls. Operations Section Chief Matt Flock shared with nightshift crews that there will be less resources assigned to night shift which means that things are ramping down.  He then reminded them that there was still work to be done in the southern section of the fire. The fire is in a good position on the northern divisions and crews are being moved to other priority areas around the fire.

Pace and purpose are being preached to the firefighters as they enter full mop-up mode. Complacency can set in at this point in the fire where accidents are more likely to occur. With just two minor injuries recorded, this fire’s excellent safety record is a testament to firefighters’ attention to detail and situational awareness.

Cooler weather, higher humidity and minimal wind have contributed to the success of mop-up operations and keeping the fire within the containment lines.  Palm IR cameras will continue to be used to identify hot spots near the fireline where containment lines can be compromised.

Residential traffic is allowed in the fire area, but residents are encouraged to drive slowly and be aware of fire operation traffic as they travel through the fire. Bureau of Land Management lands in and around the fire area remain closed to the public.

Evacuation levels have been lifted. For the latest up-to-date evacuation information, please visit the Klamath County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/KlamathSheriff or call 541-205-9730.  The Red Cross Evacuation Shelter at the Klamath County Fair and Event Center has been closed.

Due to the great work that has been completed, aviation resources were released and made available for higher priority fires around the state. Two local helicopters, based out of the ODF office, are available if needed for any flare ups and new fire starts. A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) exists around the fire to limit any aircraft not associated with firefighting activities in the airspace.  Wildfires are always a no-fly zone for drones.  A drone flying in the area can ground all operational aircraft and impact suppression activities.

We would like to remind the public that although we received a small amount of rain yesterday, we are still in extreme fire danger. Fuels are still dry and receptive to fire. Please exercise caution when working or recreating in the outdoors. Also, visit https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/restrictions.aspx for fire restrictions in your area or areas you plan to visit.