Orleans Complex

Orleans Complex, Six Rivers NF, USFS. Ten miles east of Orleans, CA. Timber and brush. Minimal fire behavior with creeping and smoldering. Numerous structures threatened. Area, road and trail closures in effect. Precipitation occurred over the fire area yesterday.

August 14, 2025 at 8:19 AM

Minimal fire behavior reported today. There is a threat to critical wildlife habitat, cultural and historical resources. Evacuation Warnings remain in place. Area, road and trail closures in effect.

August 9, 2025 at 4:30 PM

This is the final update that will be provided by California Interagency Incident Management Team 4. The team will transfer command of the Orleans Complex to the local Klamath type 3 team today at 6 p.m.

Big Cliff Fire (Klamath National Forest, three miles southeast of Idlewild Campground; 906 acres; 26% Contained) Working through increasing temperatures and occasional wind gusts up to 20 mph, fire crews were able to keep the Big Cliff Fire within established control lines yesterday. Deeper in from the perimeter, the fire slowly crept through areas of unconsumed fuels, generating minimal smoke and connecting with other pockets of vegetation near the Creole Belle Gulch and Blake’s Fork areas as it was planned to do. The fuel in those areas is not expected to provide enough energy for the fire to make big runs. Crews today will focus on building and strengthening control lines around all sides of the fire, especially around the eastern flank toward South Russian Creek. Air resources are available to assist ground crews with suppression support, reconnaissance, and potential medical emergencies. 

Butler Fire (Six Rivers National Forest, ten miles east of Orleans, CA; 21,058 acres, 96% contained) Crews remaining on the Butler Fire are focused on suppression repair and are performing patrol and mop-up activities. Equipment and structure protection materials have been removed, and resources are being demobilized to their home units or reassigned to other incidents. The fire is not expected to spread. A Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) team has commenced initial assessments of the fire. Once completed, the public report will be available at https://inciweb.wildfire.gov. 

WEATHER: Gusting afternoon winds, high temperatures, and poor overnight humidity recoveries are forecasted through the weekend, returning to more normal temperatures and wind patterns early next week. High temperatures and lower humidity will create drier fuels.

August 8, 2025 at 10:10 AM

Big Cliff Fire (Klamath National Forest, three miles southeast of Idlewild Campground; 906 acres; 19% Contained) Tremendous efforts by firefighters have successfully aligned the Big Cliff Fire for higher containment numbers ahead of a very hot and dry weekend. Hot shot crews spent several days this week spiked out, constructing handline and conducting effective tactical firing operations. These firing operations, with moderate fire activity, have resulted in minimal impact to standing timber, including to the documented rare conifers that call the Klamath National Forest home. Upwards of 300 feet of mop-up has helped establish strong containment lines on the north and west sides of the fire. Firefighters are working along the N43 Road performing hazard tree abatement. Aviation assets will continue to monitor containment lines and fire activity.

Butler Fire (Six Rivers National Forest, ten miles east of Orleans, CA; 21,058 acres, 94% contained) Evacuation warnings around the Butler Fire have been downgraded to normal due to the successful fire suppression activity on the Orleans Complex, and timed road closures have been lifted on Sawyers Bar Road. The fire’s perimeter has not expanded in several days, and the fire is primarily in a suppression repair state. Firefighting resources remain in the area performing patrol and mop-up activities, felling any fire-damaged trees, and cooling ash pits to reduce residual smoke and minimize chances of escape. The fire is not anticipated to spread beyond its existing footprint.

A Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) team is being assembled to address emergency stabilization in the watersheds in the Butler Fire. The team will determine the need for—and prescribe and implement—emergency treatments on Forest Service lands to minimize threats to life or property resulting from the effects of the fire, or to stabilize and prevent unacceptable degradation to natural and cultural resources. Upon completion of the BAER team’s assessment, a report will be provided to the Klamath National Forest that includes recommendations for both immediate and long-term techniques needing implementation to ensure timely rehabilitation and recovery.

WEATHER: Temperatures will continue warming into next week with triple-digit heat in the valleys and highs around 90 degrees along the ridgetops. Poor overnight humidity recoveries are expected, with some areas remaining under 30%. Gusty winds are still possible each afternoon along ridgetops, and down slope in the valleys. The shifting wind patterns—north to northeast— are opposite of what it has been since the start of the fire. An extreme heat watch has been issued for Sunday and Monday by the National Weather Service.

August 7, 2025 at 10:42 AM

Big Cliff Fire (Klamath National Forest, three miles southeast of Idlewild Campground; 895 acres; 19% Contained) Firefighters are working around the clock using full suppression tactics on the Big Cliff Fire. Active fire behavior continued yesterday, filling in unburned pockets of fuel deep within the fire’s perimeter. Crews working in steep, rugged terrain continue to secure containment lines along the South Russian Creek.

Firefighters completed tactical firing operations on the southeast corner, bringing the fire slowly down to established lines, and helicopters monitored operations from the air. The west and north sides of the fire are holding well. Crews remain in the Rainbow Mine area to provide structure protection. Across the fire, smoldering heavy fuels are generating smoke, especially in the afternoons. Today, rising temperatures and strong, shifting winds could impact the fire environment with increased activity. Air operations will continue to support crews and monitor fire behavior. A new closure order has been issued on the Salmon-Scott River Ranger District for the Big Cliff Fire. The Pacific Crest Trail remains closed between Carter Summit (mile 1581.5) to Etna Summit (mile 1601.2).

Butler Fire (Six Rivers National Forest, ten miles east of Orleans, CA; 21,058 acres, 94% contained) The Butler Fire has not seen growth in several days. Resources are monitoring and patrolling, mopping up, chipping material, and backhauling equipment. Although some interior pockets continue to smolder, the fire is not anticipated to spread beyond its existing footprint. Motorists are advised to exercise caution when traveling through the burned area, as the risk of unexpected debris across roadways remains.

WEATHER: Temperatures will run 10-15 degrees above normal with lower elevations experiencing an extended stretch of triple-digit temperatures. Afternoon humidity will drop under 10% at times and overnight recoveries will be poor, generally under 40%. Afternoon ridgetop winds will be from the north to northeast today and tomorrow will transition to west-northwest winds over the weekend. Wind gusts of 20-25 mph will be possible each day.

August 5, 2025 at 11:55 AM

Big Cliff Fire (Klamath National Forest, three miles southeast of Idlewild Campground; 654 acres; 2% Contained) Firefighters are working day and night on the Big Cliff Fire, utilizing full suppression tactics. Hotshot crews made significant progress around the spot fire on the southeast side of the fire yesterday, and this area will remain a priority. The fire continued backing into South Russian Creek, working through dead and down surface fuels. The north and west sides remain relatively inactive, smoldering within established control lines. Firefighters are expecting the spot fires and main fire to eventually merge on the east side, but within the control objectives. Helicopters are supporting crews directly on the fire’s edge with water drops, which is moderating fire behavior. In the Rainbow Mine area, firefighters added sprinkler kits and protective wrap to structures. A heating and drying trend this week is expected to create heightened burning conditions. Firefighters are monitoring the weather carefully. 

Butler Fire (Six Rivers National Forest, ten miles east of Orleans, CA; 21,058 acres, 93% contained) 

The Butler Fire has not grown for several days. Resources are monitoring and patrolling, mopping up, chipping material, and backhauling equipment. A few interior pockets are still smoldering, but the fire is not expected to move beyond its current footprint. The public is urged to drive safely on the roads in the burn area, and the risk of unexpected debris across roadways remains. 

WEATHER: Dry conditions are forecasted in the afternoon with minimum relative humidity in the valleys reaching the teens. High temperatures reach the low to mid 90s in the valleys with low to mid 70s in the higher elevations. Ridgetop winds will be from the west-northwest and gusting up to 23 mph in the afternoon. Increased cloud cover on Wednesday will result in slightly cooler temperatures and slightly higher relative humidity compared to Tuesday.

August 4, 2025 at 10:54 AM

The Orleans Complex on the Six Rivers and Klamath National Forests sits approximately ten miles east of Orleans, California. It is comprised of three fires, two of which remain active. Resources across the Orleans Complex landscape stand ready to respond to any new starts on the Six Rivers and Klamath National Forests.

Big Cliff Fire (Klamath National Forest, three miles southeast of Idlewild Campground; 530 acres; 0% Contained) Firefighters are working around the clock on the Big Cliff Fire, utilizing full suppression tactics.

Crews continue to construct direct and indirect fire lines to keep the fire within the smallest possible footprint.

The fire activity picked up on the south and east side of the fire yesterday afternoon with some spotting occurring east of the Blake’s Fork Trail, but well within the identified control objectives. The north and west side remains relatively inactive, smoldering within control lines. Due to steep and rugged terrain, helicopters transported hotshot crews and their equipment into the area yesterday, with plans to stay overnight for several shifts. Rapid Extraction Module Support (REMS) teams are assigned to the fire to provide critical timely rescue response to firefighters should the need arise. The fire poses a threat to high-value natural and cultural resources and historical structures in the Rainbow Mine area. These structures have been wrapped for protection and remain a priority for firefighters. Precipitation over the weekend had limited effect on fire activity. West winds may impact the fire near the Blake Fork Trail area, and the weather is being monitored closely. Heavy smoke is expected to continue, settling into nearby drainages and the Salmon River Valley after sunset. The Pacific Crest Trail remains closed between Carter Summit (mile 1581.5) to Etna Summit (mile 1601.2) due to the Big Cliff Fire.

Butler Fire (Six Rivers National Forest, ten miles east of Orleans, CA; 21,058 acres, 93% contained)

The Butler Fire has not grown for several days. Resources are monitoring and patrolling, mopping up, chipping material, and backhauling equipment. A few interior pockets are still smoldering, but the fire is not expected to move beyond its current footprint.

WEATHER: Temperatures will be in the mid to upper 80s in the valleys with afternoon relative humidity around the mid 20s. Winds will be west to northwest along ridgelines, gusting up to 22 mph. In the Salmon River and South Russian Creek valleys, northwest winds are expected in the afternoon as upslope and up valley wind dominate. Warmer temperatures are expected on Tuesday with slightly drier conditions. No precipitation is expected today through tomorrow.

August 3, 2025 at 12:28 PM

Big Cliff Fire (Klamath National Forest, three miles southeast of Idlewild Campground; 384 acres; 0% Contained) Firefighters are implementing full suppression tactics on the Big Cliff Fire, utilizing direct and indirect fire lines, and scouting and identifying secondary control lines and values at risk. The Big Cliff fire continued to back down the slope yesterday into South Russian Creek on the north and east sides of the fire. The spots on the east side in Blake’s Fork continued to grow but pose no threat of progression to the east. On the south and west sides of the fire, the line is held on the ridge and remains in the current footprint. Two helispots have been established on the ridge to support aircraft operations. The Pacific Crest Trail remains closed between Carter Summit (mile 1581.5) to Etna Summit (mile 1601.2) due to the Big Cliff Fire.

Butler Fire (Six Rivers National Forest, ten miles east of Orleans, CA; 21,058 acres, 91% contained)

Mop up activities are still occurring around the perimeter of the Butler Fire. Improvement has occurred on the contingency line north and south of Eddy Gulch lookout with us of heavy equipment and hand crews.

Brushing and improving road systems continue to improve ingress and egress east of the fire. Resources are monitoring and patrolling, chipping material, and backhauling equipment. Suppression repair is in progress and to ensure long-term mitigation of threats of soil erosion and loss of natural resources.

WEATHER: A cold front is expected to move through the Orleans Complex this afternoon and evening, bringing increased west to northwest winds gusting up to 25 miles per hour. Temperatures will moderate today and Monday, with a warming and drying trend expected starting on Tuesday. High temperatures return to the mid- to upper-90s by late week. No precipitation is expected this week after the cold frontal passage today.

August 2, 2025 at 8:59 AM

The Orleans Complex on the Six Rivers and Klamath National Forests sits approximately ten miles east of Orleans, California. It is comprised of three fires, two of which remain active.

Resources across the Orleans Complex landscape stand ready to respond to any of these new starts on the Six Rivers and Klamath National Forests.

OPERATIONAL UPDATE:

Big Cliff Fire (Klamath National Forest, three miles southeast of Idlewild Campground; 316 acres; 0% Contained)

Firefighters will continue to utilize full suppression tactics on the Big Cliff Fire, which is burning within the footprint of an historical wildfire area (Whites Fire, 2014) and consists of heavy dead and down fuels and fire- weakened trees which are carrying the fire. The terrain is difficult, and the fire is burning on steep slopes.

Firefighters are constructing direct and indirect fire lines to keep the fire within the smallest possible footprint and scouting and identifying secondary control lines and values at risk. Crews are scouting structures and properties in and around the fire area to establish any values at risk, especially around the Rainbow Mine area. Additional hotshot crews and engines have been ordered, and aircraft will be utilized again today to support suppression efforts. The Pacific Crest Trail is closed between Carter Summit (mile 1581.5) to Etna Summit (mile 1601.2) due to the Big Cliff Fire.

Butler Fire (Six Rivers National Forest, ten miles east of Orleans, CA; 21,058 acres, 86% contained)

The fire will be monitored as it backs to existing lines east and west of Orleans Mountain Lookout, and areas will be mopped up where the fire has made it to control lines. The contingency line north and south of Eddy Gulch lookout will be improved using heavy equipment and hand crews. Brushing and improving road systems will continue to improve ingress and egress east of the fire area. Resources are monitoring and patrolling, chipping material, and backhauling equipment. Suppression repair crews are focusing on returning the landscape to more pre-fire conditions. Containment numbers are increasing daily. Along Cecilville Road, crews continue to scout for and mitigate any roadside hazards, and drivers through the area are encouraged to be particularly mindful of emergency response traffic.

Red Fire (Six Rivers National Forest; 116 acres; 100% contained)

Crews will continue suppression repair efforts to restore the landscape to a more natural, pre-fire condition.

WEATHER: Mostly sunny skies are expected today with a few scattered cumulus clouds developing in the late morning and afternoon. Isolated thunderstorms will be possible in the afternoon after 2 p.m.., dissipating around 8 p.m.. Temperatures on Saturday trend a degree or two cooler with westerly winds gusting up to 20 mph. Sunday will see a pattern change towards cooler temperatures as a weak cold front moves through in the afternoon. Northwest winds are likely to be stronger, gusting to 25 mph. Isolated thunderstorm chances linger on Sunday due to the cold front but are very likely to remain east of the Orleans Complex.

July 31, 2025 at 9:57 AM

Primary suppression activities of the Butler Fire occurred along the southern perimeter of the fire in the area of Lunch Creek, Horn Creek, and Nordheimer Creek. These areas are operationally complex due to near-vertical terrain. Crews have deployed hose lays as far as possible in these conditions and are applying water several hundred feet down toward Nordheimer Creek. Crews scouted and assessed secondary control lines south of the fire, in areas of the Red Salmon (2020) and Boise (2024) Fires. Interior pockets of unconsumed fuels along the Salmon River Road south of Butler burned slowly but posed minimal threat to the perimeter.

Widespread lightning occurred over the Klamath National Forest yesterday afternoon and evening, bringing scattered precipitation and igniting multiple fires. There is one confirmed fire on the Salmon/Scott River District. The Big Cliff Fire is three miles south-southeast of Idlewild Campground and is reported to be roughly three acres with fire crews on scene. The Orleans Complex is supporting the Forest in the form of resources.

TODAY – For a second day in a row, there is a Red Flag Warning from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. due to abundant lightning over dry fuels. Firefighters and aircraft stand ready to support new fire starts on both the Klamath and Six Rivers National Forests. Suppression activities will continue on the southern portion of the fire and crews will actively mop up around McNeal on the South Fork and west of Horn Creek Gap to fortify the containment lines. Night operations are planned, and crews will be patrolling and strengthening containment lines as needed. A significant effort is underway to backhaul pumps and hoses that were used around much of the fire. Firefighters and aircraft will continue to support the Forest on the Big Cliff Fire.

WEATHER: The Red Flag Warning that is in effect today from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. today will most likely affect the area from Trinity Alps to Etna Summit. In addition to lightning, the concern will be gusty outflow winds of up to 40 mph arriving from the east. High atmospheric instability will continue through Saturday; however, Sunday will bring a big change as a cold front passes through the area, shifting strong winds to the northwest.

July 28, 2025 at 9:54 AM

Predicted thunderstorms did not materialize yesterday as predicted, and crews reinforced control lines throughout the fire area. In the northern area from Orleans Mountain to Pollack Gulch remained quiet as crews added more depth to current containment lines and added additional containment around Salmon River Road and Quail Ridge. In the southeastern area near Cecilville, crews continue to experience large amounts of debris in the roadways and are assessing methods to remove hazards in effort to ensure safe travel. Control line has been extended west of Knownothing Creek to the 10N07 Road along the highpoint ridge. Westward in the areas of Lunch Creek and Horn Creek, crews coordinated waterdrops to lower the fire intensity of interior fuels within the containment lines.

TODAY — Crews will remain on high alert for new starts and increased fire activity due to predicted dryer conditions and thunderstorms over the fire area today. Firefighters will be scouting containment options west of Lunch Creek while continuing suppression actions towards Nordheimer, the wilderness boundary, and previously burned Red Salmon Fire area. In the east, crews will continue to brush roads to open access on the 39 and 39N30 roads east of Cecilville Road near Godfrey Ranch.

Debris (falling rock and hazard trees) on road systems remains of heightened concern, creating hazards to emergency response personnel, visitors, and residents. Reopening Sawyer’s Bar and Salmon River Roads remains a top priority for incident managers, and crews will continue to focus their efforts to reopen those roads by conducting hazard tree and debris removal activities.

WEATHER — A slight warming trend begins today with temperatures climbing the daily maximum a few degrees each day, beginning at an expected 90-93 degrees today. Very low relative humidities in the teens will cause substantial drying and create a high probability of ignition of new starts. Similar winds are expected in the valleys, upslope 3-5 mph, up-valley 5-10 mph out of the northwest with potential gusting up to 18 mph. The predicted path of storms now covers the Butler Fire area, as well as the Etna base camp, beginning early in the afternoon. These predicted storms could bring lightning and erratic winds, causing fire behavior to increase.

July 27, 2025 at 9:32 AM

YESTERDAY— The fire area saw more activity and smoke production as winds increased; however, mid-day observation flights revealed that the northern and eastern portions of the fire were holding well within containment lines. This holding success allowed crews to shift necessary equipment and resources to other parts of the incident. High priority operations were conducted on Forks of Salmon where crews worked hard to remove hazard trees and rock debris along the road.

The southern portion of the fire near McNeal Creek, crews actively patrolled and found no areas of concern. Near Godfrey Ranch, structure protection crews checked hose lays and pumps, and continued brushing and chipping operations along roadways. The greatest fire activity occurred near Horn Creek where the Butler Fire continues to burn interior pockets of fuel. Once filled, these large interior pockets will ensure strong and solid containment lines. Near Lunch Creek, crews aggressively attacked a three-acre growth beyond containment lines with handlines and hose lays; additional support was provided by aircraft. The growth met the previous Red Salmon Fire and was successfully contained.

TODAY — Crews are prepared for a Red Flag Warning as storms move through the area and remain on high alert for new starts due to lightning on dry fuels. Firefighters along the eastern perimeter will continue strengthening lines and mopping up to extinguishing hotspots. In the west, crews will focus on securing control lines from Murderers Gulch to Pollacks Gulch and assess the potential for necessary secondary control lines. In the south/southeast, crews will monitor progression as the fire backs into existing control lines around Orleans Mountain lookout, improve line along Hotelling Ridge, and prioritize keeping fire within it’s current perimeter while abating hazardous impacts to Sawyer’s Bar and Cecilville Roads.

Resources are being replaced in equal measure as they time out. Firefighting personnel, with support from all cooperating and hosting agencies, are maintaining a constant state of readiness and preparation to quickly respond to any new fire starts in the area.

Debris (falling rocks and trees) on road systems remains of heightened concern, creating hazards to emergency response personnel and public. Reopening Sawyer’s Bar and Salmon River Roads remains a top priority to incident managers, and crews will continue to focus their efforts to reopen those roads by conducting hazard tree and debris removal activities.

WEATHER— A red flag warning is in effect for scattered dry thunderstorms over dry fuels with the potential for abundant lightning. While most storms are forecasted to move east of the fire, passing winds may increase fire activity. Conditions will be warm and dry with relative humidity in 20s, with winds expected to gust to 20-30 mph, particularly in the Salmon River Valley. High temperatures are trending upward, with highs in the lower 90s in valleys. Forecasters are monitoring the warmer and dryer conditions projected for the next few days with more potential thunderstorms expected.

July 26, 2025 at 7:28 AM

The Butler fire is at 10% containment with active fire behavior reported. The Red fire has had minimal fire activity and is at 80% containment.

July 25, 2025 at 10:17 AM

The California Interagency Incident Management Team 4 has officially taken command of the Orleans Complex Fire. and is now in unified command with the Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office and the Office of Emergency Management for the Orleans Complex Fire. Together, they are leading efforts to manage the fire and keep the public safe and informed.

Last night – Rainfall overnight helped slow down fire activity. Crews were also able to continue firing operations, which went well and helped strengthen containment lines.

Today – In the northern area of the Butler Fire, crews are continuing efforts to hold the fire on Salmon River Road. They are also watching the area closely and mop up where safe to do so. On the northeast side, firefighters will continue direct line construction, mop up, and work to prevent the fire from moving into Crapo Creek. Moving down the east side, direct line construction will continue in Murderers Gulch as terrain and fire behavior permit. A structure protection group is in place to prepare structures.

At the southeastern end, firefighters will continue to construct and improve lines along Hoteling Ridge. They are also working to mop-up existing lines in Knownothing Creek. On the west side, the fire is slowly backing towards existing lines east and west of Orleans Mountain Lookout. Mop up will continue in areas where the fire has made it to control lines. Firefighters will respond to any fire movement out of Lunch Creek and Hemmel Creek toward constructed lines.

Weather:

A Red Flag Warning is in effect for Friday in anticipation of another round of thunderstorms for the fire area. Gusty outflow winds in excess of 40 mph, brief heavy rainfall, cloud to ground lightning and small hail are possible over the fire area.

Evacuations:

There are evacuation orders and warnings in the immediate vicinity of the fire. For current evacuation status, visit www.facebook.com/SiskiyouCountySheriff and www.facebook.com/SiskiyouCountyOES . Additional evacuation information and a map can be found on the Genasys site at https://protect.genasys.com/search?z=14&latlon=41.550694%2C-122.905589

July 23, 2025 at 12:39 PM

Butler Fire: 18,474 acres; 9% containment
Red Fire: 116 acres; 80% containment

Butler Fire:  Crews have been successful with line construction and keeping the fire within containment lines along the Salmon River Road. More containment is expected to be added to the map soon from drop point 3 to Nordheimer Creek.

In Division Alpha, crews were able to tie indirect lines into the existing burn. A significant number of hazardous snags were encountered by crews, and sawyers were brought in to mitigate the problem, allowing crews to continue line construction in this area. From Hog Ridge up to drop point 9, crews constructed  additional line. In the Murderers Gulch area crews worked from Yellow Jacket Ridge towards Sawyers Bar Road and expect to complete this line tonight.

A dozer was able to work a ridge off the 10N10 Road toward Dougherty Bluff. The rest of the line will be completed using hand crews. Overnight crews were able to pick up a slop-over and spot fires with direct line construction. Crews also worked from Hotelling Ridge down to Cecilville Road, completing handline construction.  

Today crews will actively reinforce and strengthen containment lines.

Weather will continue to be dry and warm with temperatures in the 90s. Relative humidity will remain in the upper teens. Thunderstorms continue to be a possibility, and wind gusts near 40 miles an hour are possible. A fire weather watch has been issued for July 24 by the National Weather Service.

Evacuations:

Below are the current evacuation order and warning zones for the Orleans Complex.

Evacuation ORDERS: SIS-1802 and SIS-1903, FRK-1709 (Forks of Salmon), SIS-1703, SIS-1704 (Butler Creek, Lewis Creek, Bloomer Mine residents and Nordheimer Campground), SIS-1707-A, SIS-1707-B, SIS-1708, SIS-1710, SIS-1803-A, SIS-1804, SIS-1805 and SIS-1808.

Evacuation WARNINGS: SAW-1713, SIS-1705, SIS-1712, SIS-1803-B, SIS-1811, SIS-1906 and SIS-1907.

The latest evacuation information can be found at https://protect.genasys.com.

Siskiyou County Office of Emergency Services for fire-related resources and general safety information.

If you are in an Evacuation Order Zone, LEAVE IMMEDIATELY. This lawful order is not only to protect your life, but the lives of firefighters, law enforcement, and emergency medical personnel.

For shelter information and resources related to the fire evacuations, please call (530) 340–3539.

July 22, 2025 at 9:53 AM

Butler Fire: 17,849 acres; 6% containment
Red Fire: 116 acres; 80% containment

Operational Updates:

Firefighters had a productive day on the Butler Fire July 21 as cooler temperatures moderated fire activity. With temperatures in the low 80s and humidity up to 45 percent, firefighters were able to construct handline more directly on the fire’s edge and complete control lines around a number of spot fires and slop-overs from the day before.

Crews completed handline around the previous day’s spot fire near Tripp Point on the north end of the fire. Firefighters mopped up along the Salmon River Road corridor, extinguishing interior pockets of heat that still threatened the roadway.

Across the Salmon River in the Crapo Creek drainage, crews constructed direct handline from the river up to Yellow Jacket Ridge. Crews also built handline from Sawyers Bar Road up to Yellow Jacket Ridge along the fire’s eastern perimeter in Murderers Gulch.

Overnight firefighters took advantage of moderating weather conditions to conduct strategic firing operations to reduce available vegetation between the fire and structures around the confluence of the Salmon River and its north fork.

Crews extinguished or contained fire that had spilled or spotted into the Knownothing Creek drainage the previous day. They evaluated options for indirect control lines along Hotelling Ridge, while also identifying structures and infrastructure needing protection.

The west side of the fire stayed within control lines bordering the boundaries of the 2024 Boise Fire and 2023 Pearch Fire.

The Red Fire remains stable with no growth in days. Infrared flights have shown progressively less heat around the fire’s perimeter and interior.

Evacuations:

Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office expanded its evacuation orders July 20 to include zones to include zones SIS-1802 and SIS-1903. The following zones continue to be under evacuation orders: FRK-1709 (Forks of Salmon), SIS-1703, SIS-1704 (Butler Creek, Lewis Creek, Bloomer Mine residents and Nordheimer Campground), SIS-1707-A, SIS-1707-B, SIS-1708, SIS-1710, SIS-1803-A, SIS-1804, SIS-1805 and SIS-1808.
The Siskiyou Office of Emergency Services has established a dedicated phone number to assist people with their evacuation needs: 530-340-3539.
Zones SAW-1713, SIS-1705, SIS-1712, SIS-1803-B, SIS-1811, SIS-1906 and SIS-1907 are under an evacuation warning, where residents are advised to be prepared to evacuate if conditions become more threatening. The latest evacuation information can be found at https://protect.genasys.com.

Closures:

Butler Fire: Salmon River Road between Butler Flat and Nordheimer Campground remains closed as rocks and burning debris continued to fall onto the roadway.

National Forests: The Six Rivers and Klamath National Forests issued a joint closure order July 16 within the vicinity of the Butler Fire. The closure includes Nordheimer and Oak Bottom campgrounds. The Pacific Crest Trail remains outside of the closure area, but hikers are advised to exercise caution.

Weather and Fire Behavior:

A local red flag warning is in effect today with a 20 percent chance of dry thunderstorms forecast for this afternoon. Outflow winds are expected out of the northeast with gusts up to 40 miles an hour, which could result in multi-directional fire spread and spotting up to a mile.

July 21, 2025 at 10:32 AM

Operational Updates:

• Butler Fire: The Butler Fire tested containment lines July 20 with a mix of spot fires and rollouts. Spotting occurred on both the north and south ends of the fire west of the Salmon River, while the fire east of the river had moderate growth.

East of Salmon River, fire remained active in the Crapo Creek drainage. A new line of retardant limited its forward progression as crews reinforced handlines. Crews continued to construct direct line from Yellow Jacket Ridge down to Sawyers Bar Road. Fire reached Sawyers Bar Road in two locations, but firefighters and aircraft kept the fire from crossing the North Fork Salmon River.

On the west side of Salmon River, fire pushed through McNeal Creek drainage and threw spots across handline into the adjacent Knownothing Creek drainage, prompting the Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office to issue evacuation orders for zones SIS-1802 (upper Nordheimer) and S-1903 (upper Knownothing Creek).

To the north, a spot fire was detected across the Salmon River near Tripp Point. Aircraft responded quickly, laying down a line of retardant to impede any northernly spread. Firefighters were ferried across the river to contain it.

Evacuations:

Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office expanded its evacuation orders July 20 to include zones to include zones SIS-1802 and SIS-1903. The following zones continue to be under evacuation orders: FRK-1709 (Forks of Salmon), SIS-1703, SIS-1704 (Butler Creek, Lewis Creek, Bloomer Mine residents and Nordheimer Campground), SIS-1707-A, SIS-1707-B, SIS-1708, SIS-1710, SIS-1803-A, SIS-1804, SIS-1805 and SIS-1808.

The Siskiyou Office of Emergency Services has established a dedicated phone number to assist people with their evacuation needs: 530-340-3539.

Zones SAW-1713, SIS-1705, SIS-1712, SIS-1803-B, SIS-1811, SIS-1906 and SIS-1907 are under an evacuation warning, where residents are advised to be prepared to evacuate if conditions become more threatening. The latest evacuation information can be found at https://protect.genasys.com.

Closures:

• Butler Fire: Salmon River Road between Butler Flat and Nordheimer Campground remains closed as rocks and burning debris continued to fall onto the roadway.
• National Forests: The Six Rivers and Klamath National Forests issued a joint closure order July 16 within the vicinity of the Butler Fire. The closure includes Nordheimer and Oak Bottom campgrounds. The Pacific Crest Trail remains outside of the closure area, but hikers are advised to exercise caution.

Weather and Fire Behavior:

• A marine layer today has ushed in some of the lowest temperatures and highest humidity readings since the Butler Fire began. Temperatures will be in the low 80s with humidity at 55 percent along ridgetops. Winds will remain out of the northwest, gusting up to 20 miles an hour.

July 20, 2025 at 9:51 AM

Butler Fire: The Butler Fire remained active on both sides of the Salmon River July 19, continuing its progression south. The area’s complex pattern of ridgetops and drainages set the fire up for “leapfrog spotting” as afternoon winds picked up speed through the river corridor.

On the east side of Salmon River Road, firefighters were successful at holding the fire along its northern perimeter. Handline and dozer line were put along its eastern flank. The southern tip of the fire reached Sawyers Bar Road, about one and a half miles east of Forks of Salmon.

On the west side of Salmon River Road, the fire continued throwing embers that ignited smaller fires ahead of itself for a second day. In a pattern referred to as “leapfrog spotting,” fire slowly backs down to a drainage before accelerating up the adjacent slope. At the crest of the ridge, winds transport embers to the next drainage, restarting the sequence.

Three spot fires—one about 50 acres in size­—were caught by firefighters along High Point Road, about a mile from McNeal drainage, where fire had moved the night before.

Along its southwest flanks, the Butler Fire continued to converge along Hammel Creek and move closer to Orleans Mountain. The outer edges of the fire made contact with the footprints of the 2024 Boise Fire and 2023 Pearch Fire.

Salmon River Road along the fire’s northeast perimeter remains closed as firefighters extinguish isolated heat sources. Sections of the road continue to be impacted by falling logs and burning debris from higher up in the fire’s interior.

Firefighting priorities for today include containing the spread of the fire burning east of the Salmon River, protecting Forks of Salmon and surrounding communities, and keeping the main fire within the footprints of the Boise, Pearch, and Red Salmon fires.

Evacuations:

Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office has issued evacuation orders for the following zones: FRK-1709 (Forks of Salmon), SIS-1703, SIS-1704 (Butler Creek, Lewis Creek, Bloomer Mine residents and Nordheimer Campground), SIS-1707-A, SIS-1707-B, SIS-1708, SIS-1710, SIS-1803-A, SIS-1804, SIS-1805 and SIS-1808.

The Siskiyou Office of Emergency Services has established a dedicated phone number to assist people with their evacuation needs: 530-340-3539.

Zones SAW-1713, SIS-1705, SIS-1712, SIS-1802, SIS-1811 and SIS-1906 are under an evacuation warning, where residents are advised to be prepared to evacuate if conditions become more threatening. The latest evacuation information can be found at https://protect.genasys.com.

Closures:

Butler Fire: Salmon River Road between Butler Flat and Nordheimer Campground remains closed as rocks and burning debris continued to fall onto the roadway.

National Forests: The Six Rivers and Klamath National Forests issued a joint closure order July 16 within the vicinity of the Butler Fire. The closure includes Nordheimer and Oak Bottom campgrounds. The Pacific Crest Trail remains outside of the closure area, but hikers are advised to exercise caution.

Weather and Fire Behavior:

Fire behavior is expected to remain active today with temperatures in the low 90s and winds out of the west up to 20 miles an hour. An marine layer is moving into the area today and Monday, bringing with it cooler temperatures and higher humidity levels. Monday temperatures are forecast in the low 80s.

July 19, 2025 at 10:05 AM

Butler Fire: The spot fire in Boyd Gulch continued its uphill progression July 18, spilling into the upper elevations of Logan Gulch to its south and cresting Hog Ridge to its east. Within the main body of the fire west of Salmon River Road, wind and slope alignment led to rapid fire spread—up to a half-mile an hour at times—as the fire moved southward into Fong Wah Gulch, throwing spot fires ahead of the main fire.

On the east side of Salmon River Road, crews were successful at digging line and laying hose along much of the fire’s northern perimeter to block the fire’s progression into miles of dry, dense vegetation. Fire backed down to structures along the roadside overnight, but protection measures held. Overnight infrared readings picked up heat sources in the upper reaches of Dead Mule Gulch and Swan Gulch, as well as the lower elevations of Pollocks Gulch.

Along the southern perimeter of the main fire west of Salmon River Road, a spot fire was thrown from Fong Wah Gulch into the Horn Creek drainage. By evening fire had moved into the next drainage, McNeal Creek, as it progressed toward hand and dozer lines put in place by firefighters days before.

Minimal activity was seen along the fire’s western perimeter, staying mostly within the Butler Creek boundary.

Red Fire: No significant activity occurred on the Red Fire. New containment numbers reflect more accurate reporting.

Evacuations:

Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office issued additional evacuation orders July 17 to include SIS-1710 and SIS-1808. They join existing evacuation orders for FRK-1709 (Forks of Salmon), SIS-1703, SIS-1704 (Butler Creek, Lewis Creek, Bloomer Mine residents and Nordheimer Campground), SIS-1707-A, SIS-1707-B, SIS-1708, SIS-1803-A, SIS-1804 and SIS-1805.
T
he Siskiyou Office of Emergency Services has established a dedicated phone number to assist people with their evacuation needs: 530-340-3539.

Zones SAW-1713, SIS-1705, SIS-1712, SIS-1802, SIS-1811 and SIS-1906 are under an evacuation warning, where residents are advised to be prepared to evacuate if conditions become more threatening. The latest evacuation information can be found at https://protect.genasys.com.

Closures:

Butler Fire: Salmon River Road between Butler Flat and Nordheimer Campground remains closed as rocks and burning debris continued to fall onto the roadway.

National Forests: The Six Rivers and Klamath National Forests issued a joint closure order July 16 within the vicinity of the Butler Fire. The closure includes Nordheimer and Oak Bottom campgrounds. The Pacific Crest Trail remains open, but hikers are advised to exercise caution.

Weather and Fire Behavior:

While slightly cooler, temperatures will stay in the low 90s and winds are expected to come mostly come out of the west with occasional gusts up to 20 miles an hour for another active day on the fire line.

July 19, 2025 at 8:28 AM

Three firefighters from the U.S. Forest Service working on the Butler Fire, part of the Orleans Complex were injured in a tree strike incident at approximately 2:15 p.m., this afternoon. Firefighters were transported to Redding, California for further medical care. This incident is under investigation.

July 18, 2025 at 1:00 PM

Butler Fire: The Butler Fire spotted over the Salmon River July 17 into the Boyd Gulch area. Additional aircraft were brought in to drop water and retardant, while a surge order of firefighters and equipment arrived early in the evening to provide additional protection for structures in the vicinity, including Forks of Salmon two miles upstream of the fire. Among responding crews were those from the Six Rivers National Forest, Klamath National Forest, and CAL FIRE’s Siskiyou and Humboldt-Del Norte units. A night-flying helicopter was also supplied by CAL FIRE, which dropped water up until 1 a.m. as crews aggressively worked to suppress the fire.

A contingency line completed the previous day off Yellow Jacket Ridge initially held the spot’s progression south toward Forks of Salmon. However, the fire grew to more than 700 acres overnight, spilling over the ridgeline.
Crews continued to strengthen reopened containment lines from previous wildfires around Horn Creek and McNeal Creek ahead of the main fire’s southern edge.

The western fingers of the fire began to naturally converge on one another as fire moved slowly downslope into the Hammel Creek drainage around Orleans Mountain. Butler Creek remained effective in holding the fire’s westerly growth, with scars from the 2024 Boise Fire and 2023 Pearch Fires serving as backstops.

Firefighter priorities today are gaining control of the Boyd Gulch spot fire, protecting structures around Forks of Salmon, Sawyers Bar and Godfrey Ranch, and preparing control lines south of the main fire west of the Salmon River.

Evacuations:

Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office has issued additional evacuation orders July 17 to include SIS- 1710 and SIS-1808. They join existing evacuation orders for FRK-1709 (Forks of Salmon), SIS- 1703, SIS-1704 (Butler Creek, Lewis Creek, Bloomer Mine residents and Nordheimer Campground), SIS-1707-A, SIS-1707-B, SIS-1708, SIS-1803-A, SIS-1804 and SIS-1805.

The Siskiyou Office of Emergency Services has established a dedicated phone number to assist people with their evacuation needs: 530-340-3539.

Zones SAW-1713, SIS-1705, SIS-1712, SIS-1802, SIS-1811 and SIS-1906 are under an evacuation warning, where residents are advised to be prepared to evacuate if conditions become more threatening. The latest evacuation information can be found at https://protect.genasys.com.

Closures:

• Butler Fire: The road between Butler Flat and Nordheimer Campground remains closed as rocks and burning debris continued to fall into the roadway.
• National Forests: The Six Rivers and Klamath National Forests issued a joint closure order July 16 within the vicinity of the Butler Fire. The closure includes Nordheimer and Oak Bottom campgrounds.

Weather and Fire Behavior:

• While slightly cooler, temperatures will stay in the low 90s and winds are expected to come mostly come out of the west with occasional gusts up to 20 miles an hour for another active day on the fire line.

July 17, 2025 at 10:24 AM

Butler Fire: 10,093 acres; 2% containment
Red Fire: 116 acres; 95% containment

Operational Updates:

Butler Fire: Firefighters achieved 2 percent containment on the Butler Fire July 16 and successfully held the fire from jumping the Salmon River at a precarious corner south of Nordheimer Campground.

The public is invited to a community meeting at 6 p.m. today at the Forks of Salmon Community Center, 15520 Salmon River Road. The meeting will also be streamed from the Six Rivers and Klamath National Forests Facebook pages. People did not need to have a Facebook account to watch a Facebook Live stream.

With the northern section of the fire secured around Butler Flat, crews are making their way south along Salmon River Road extinguishing isolated hot spots. Salmon River Road remains closed between Butler Flat and Nordheimer Campground as burning vegetation and debris further upslope continue to fall into the roadway.

Terrain and weather aligned along a southern section of Salmon River Road for an increased chance of spotting over the river near Boyd Hill. Firefighters and aircraft kept the fire within its eastern perimeter while it passed by the point and continued to push southward, staying upslope of the river.

Crews have begun moving into the Forks of Salmon and Yellow Jacket Ridge areas east of the Salmon River, as well as the Horn Creek and McNeal Creek areas west of the river to perform preliminary structure protection work and reopen preexisting containment lines as contingencies against the advancing southern front. Strategic backfiring and ridgetop ignitions further south might be necessary in coming days if conditions warrant and weather allows.

Fire remained active around Orleans Mountain in the fire’s southwest perimeter. Crews and aircraft continued to focus attention on a portion of the fire that pushed east of Butler Creek. Its westward advance was diminished as it entered into the burn scars of the 2024 Boise Fire and 2023 Pearch Fire.

Red Fire: Containment of the Red Fire remained at 95 percent as crews worked the remaining section of uncontained perimeter to locate and extinguish insolated hot spots.

Evacuations:

Butler Fire: Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office expanded its evacuation orders July 15 to include FRK-1709 (Forks of Salmon), SIS-1707-B, SIS-1708, SIS-1804 and SIS-1805. They join the following zones already under an evacuation order: SIS-1703, SIS-1704 (Butler Creek, Lewis Creek, Bloomer Mine residents and Nordheimer Campground), SIS-1707-A and SIS-1803-A.

Zones SIS-1705, SIS-1710, SIS-1802, SIS-1808 and SIS-1906 are under an evacuation warning, where residents are advised to be prepared to evacuate if conditions become more threatening. The latest evacuation information can be found at https://protect.genasys.com.

Closures:

Butler Fire: The road between Butler Flat and Nordheimer Campground remains closed as rocks and burning debris continued to fall into the roadway.
National Forests: The Six Rivers and Klamath National Forests issued a joint closure order July 16 within the vicinity of the Butler Fire. The closure includes Nordheimer and Oak Bottom campgrounds.

Weather and Fire Behavior:

Temperatures are expected to be slightly cooler today with highs in the mid to low 90s. Winds will mostly come out of the west with occasional gusts up to 20 miles an hour.

July 16, 2025 at 10:02 AM

Operational Updates:

• Butler Fire: Firefighters spent most of July 15 addressing the fire activity that had picked up along the southern corners of the Butler Fire the evening before. Two noticeable smoke plumes appeared over the fire throughout the day, but were the result of interior burning and didn’t pose a threat to containment lines.

In the southeast corner of the fire, three hot shot crews, supported by aerial resources, kept the fire from crossing the Salmon River around Nordheimer. Its southern advance, however, prompted additional evacuation orders from the Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office, particularly for the town of Forks of Salmon.

Along the southwest perimeter, fire spilled over Butler Creek near Orleans Mountain. Crews were able to construct handline around it, bolstered by water drops from supporting aircraft.

Firefighters began the methodical work of searching for and extinguishing isolated heat sources along the fire’s northern perimeter around Butler Flat and portions of Salmon Creek Road. A pronounced smoke column was seen in the vicinity of Butler Flat, but it was the result of vegetation burning well within the fire’s interior. A similar column was spotted outside of Nordheimer, but again, nothing close enough to compromise the fire’s boundaries.

The southernmost edge of the fire in the upper elevations outside the Nordheimer area remained hemmed in by Nordheimer and Granite creeks. Crews began reopening roads, dozer lines, and handlines previously used in last year’s Boise Fire and the 2020 Red Salmon Fire to serve as indirect control lines.

• Red Fire: Containment of the Red Fire remained at 95 percent as crews worked the remaining section of uncontained perimeter to locate and extinguish insolated hot spots.

Evacuations:

• Butler Fire: Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office expanded its evacuation orders July 15 to include FRK-1709 (Forks of Salmon), SIS-1707-B, SIS-1708, SIS-1804 and SIS-1805. They join the following zones already under an evacuation order: SIS-1703, SIS-1704 (Butler Creek, Lewis Creek, Bloomer Mine residents and Nordheimer Campground), SIS-1707-A and SIS-1803-A.

Zones SIS-1705, SIS-1710, SIS-1802, SIS-1808 and SIS-1906 are under an evacuation warning, where residents are advised to be prepared to evacuate if conditions become more threatening. The latest evacuation information can be found at https://protect.genasys.com.

Closures:

• Butler Fire: The road between Butler Flat and Nordheimer Campground remains closed as rocks and burning debris continued to fall into the roadway. Nordheimer and Oak Bottom campgrounds are also closed.

Weather and Fire Behavior:

• Temperatures are expected to be slightly cooler today with highs in the upper 90s. Winds will mostly come out of the northwest with occasional gusts up to 20 miles an hour.

Fire Safety and Prevention:

• Persistently high temperatures will keep fuels dry and increase potential fire danger. Individuals seeking relief from the heat by recreating in streams or rivers or in the forest need to be mindful of their vehicles’ condition or where they park. Roadside sparks or dried vegetation against the heated undercarriage of a vehicle could quickly result in a wildfire. 
• The Six Rivers and Klamath National Forests are not currently in fire restrictions. However, campfires should never be left unattended and should be dead out and cool to the touch before leaving. Remember, drown, stir, feel, REPEAT. Please report suspected wildfires by calling 911.

July 15, 2025 at 9:57 AM

Butler Fire: 8,156 acres; 0% containment
Red Fire: 116 acres; 95% containment

Operational Updates:

• Butler Fire: Structure protection measures held for a second day July 14 as the fire continued its progression into the Butler Flat and Nordheimer areas. Temperatures again hit 110 degrees, but this time accompanied by increased winds, sometimes up to 25 miles an hour. The fire made a notable push to the southeast around the Nordheimer area, where aircraft and firefighters concentrated their efforts to minimize its advance.

Crews and aircraft will focus on the southern perimeter of the fire, where winds shifting out of the south should aid their efforts.

• Red Fire: Containment of the Red Fire jumped to 95 percent, which will allow a portion of firefighters and resources to be redirected to the Butler Fire.

Evacuations:

• Butler Fire: Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office has issued evacuation orders for the following zones impacted by the Butler Fire: SIS-1703, SIS-1704 (Butler Creek, Lewis Creek, Bloomer Mine residents and Nordheimer Campground), SIS-1707-A and SIS-1803-A.

Zones SIS-1705, SIS-1707-B, SIS-1708, and SIS-1802 are under an evacuation warning, where residents are advised to be prepared to evacuate if conditions become more threatening. The latest evacuation information can be found at https://protect.genasys.com.

Closures:

• Butler Fire: The road between Butler Flat and Nordheimer Campground remains closed as rocks and burning debris continued to fall into the roadway. Nordheimer and Oak Bottom campgrounds are also closed.

Weather and Fire Behavior:

• Temperatures are expected to be slightly cooler today with highs near 100 degrees. Winds will mostly come out of the southwest with occasional gusts up to 15 miles an hour.

July 13, 2025 at 9:44 AM

Operational Updates:

• Butler Fire: As temperatures reached 112 degrees and humidity less than 20 percent—the lowest since the fire started—the Butler Fire continued its measured advance July 12 toward the Salmon River along its eastern flank. Winds shifting out of the southwest pushed fire toward the community of Butler Flat, while a spot fire jumped the Salmon River Road into the nearby Moorhouse Creek drainage.

The spot fire, detected by infrared imagery, was quickly reached by firefighters who crossed the river by foot. Other firefighters joined them later, ferried across the river by local residents. Aided by helicopters dropping water, firefighters were able to hold the spot fire to less than two acres.

Engines maintained their sentinel around structures overnight, and crews will begin patrolling the fire by boat as spotting potential continues.

• Red Fire: Containment of the Red Fire stayed at 50 percent as crews sought out isolated hot spots within the fire’s interior, while also directly engaging the fire where possible along its perimeter.

Evacuations:

• Butler Fire: Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office has issued evacuation orders for the following zones impacted by the Butler Fire: SIS-1703, SIS-1704 (Butler Creek, Lewis Creek, Bloomer Mine residents and Nordheimer Campground), SIS-1803-A and SIS-1707-A.

Zones SIS-1705, SIS-1708, SIS-1707-B and SIS-1802 are under an evacuation warning, where residents are advised to be prepared to evacuate if conditions become more threatening. The latest evacuation information can be found at https://protect.genasys.com.

Closures:

• Butler Fire: The road between Butler Flat and Nordheimer Campground remains closed as rocks and burning debris continued to fall into the roadway. Nordheimer and Oak Bottom campgrounds are also closed.

Weather and Fire Behavior:

• Extreme heat continues today with highs forecast at 110 degrees. Winds will remain relatively calm and resume their typical flow out of the northwest.

July 13, 2025 at 8:44 AM

No full morning update available yet, but the fire remained active overnight.

July 12, 2025 at 11:35 AM

Butler Fire: The Butler Fire saw minimal growth July 11 despite temperatures reaching 110 degrees. The arrival of additional hose, pumps and water tanks bolstered firefighters’ efforts in protecting structures along Salmon River Road, where the fire continued to edge closer, spilling burning debris into the roadway. Salmon River Road is temporarily closed between Butler Flat and Nordheimber Campground as part of Siskiyou County’s evacuation order.

Firefighters took advantage of cooler temperatures overnight to perform strategic firing operations. Unmanned aerial systems (drones) deployed incendiary devices along select ridgetops above the Salmon River Road to allow lower intensity fire to slowly move downhill, reducing available vegetation for the advancing flames.

Red Fire: Containment of the Red Fire climbed to 50 percent as fire behavior remained subdued, allowing firefighters to more directly engage the fire.

Evacuations:

• Butler Fire: Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office has issued evacuation orders for the following zones impacted by the Butler Fire: SIS-1703, SIS-1704 (Butler Creek, Lewis Creek, Bloomer Mine residents and Nordheimer Campground), SIS-1803-A and SIS-1707-A.

Zones SIS-1705, SIS-1708, SIS-1707-B and SIS-1802 are under an evacuation warning, where residents are advised to be prepared to evacuate if conditions become more threatening. The latest evacuation information can be found at https://protect.genasys.com.

• Red Fire: No evacuations in place or structures threatened.

Closures:

• Butler Fire: The road between Butler Flat and Nordheimer Campground is temporarily closed, as are Nordheimer and Oak Bottom campgrounds.
• Red Fire: No closures or road impacts.

Weather and Fire Behavior: Extreme heat is forecast to continue with highs cresting at 115 degrees today and remaining in triple digits for the next five days. Winds remain relatively calm, although a shift is expected today for winds to come out of the southwest before returning to their typical northwesterly direction Sunday.

Fire Safety and Prevention: Persistently high temperatures will keep fuels dry and increase potential fire danger. Individuals seeking relief from the heat by recreating in streams or rivers or in the forest need to be mindful of their vehicles’ condition or where they park. Roadside sparks or dried vegetation against the heated undercarriage of a vehicle could quickly result in a wildfire. 

The Six Rivers and Klamath National Forests are not currently in fire restrictions. However, campfires should never be left unattended and should be dead out and cool to the touch before leaving. Remember, drown, stir, feel, REPEAT. Please report suspected wildfires by calling 911.

July 12, 2025 at 6:40 AM

Moderate fire behavior reported over night. There is a threat to structures with Evacuation Orders and Warnings issued. Cultural resources are threatened. CIIMT 1 (Goss) is in command.

July 11, 2025 at 10:49 AM

Moderate fire behavior observed. Fire is flanking and backing.

A strong heatwave has more strongly started to build in today with low elevation highs on track to reach near 100 with minimum RH in the teens. Smoke near the fire has generally moderated conditions in the Salmon River Valley. Wind has remained moderate and terrain driven. Hot and dry weather will continue to build in for the next couple of days bringing increasingly hot and dry conditions and enhanced terrain winds and mixing. Weather conditions will be most critical during the afternoon this Saturday and Sunday, though high elevations above 3000 feet will also see very dry and gusty conditions at night.

Planned actions:

Butler: Continue implementing structural protection plan that protects values at risk. Assess and begin constructing control lines from the 10N04 to Nordheimer Creek Road. Continue structure prep and implementing structural protection plan around the identified structure in the Nordheimer campground area. Reopen handline on the Orleans Mountain trail from the campground area to the west, assisting keeping the footprint small as possible. Scout and develop plan to prep road as line along the Salmon River Road for future firing operations. Purpose is to be prepared for firing operations to hold fire west of the Salmon River. Assess and begin constructing control lines from the 10N04 to Nordheimer Creek Road.

Red: Continue direct line where feasible.

July 10, 2025 at 10:51 AM

California Team 1 (CA-CIMT 1) is expected to assume command of the Orleans Complex by Saturday.

• Butler Fire: Today the Butler and Nordheimer Structure Groups will put in more hoselay and set up equipment to protect communities and infrastructure. Crews will continue to assess and prep the Salmon River Road between Butler Creek and Nordheimer Creek. To the east and south, crews will continue to scout Forest Road 10N04, lines from the 2024 Boise Fire, lines in the Horn Gap area, as well as the fire within the Nordheimer drainage. Crews near the Nordheimer community will also assist with structure protection across the Salmon River.
• Red Fire: The Red Fire is estimated to be approximately 113 acres. Smokejumpers and crews are making good progress on putting fireline around the fire. Though there is some complexity in putting line around the left flank of the fire, crews have managed to raise fire containment by 25%. Cultural resource specialists and resource advisors are working in coordination with responders on the ground.

Evacuations:

• Butler Fire: Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office has evacuation warnings and orders in place for the Butler Fire. An Evacuation Order has been issued for zones SIS-1703 (no residents), SIS-1704 (Butler Creek, Lewis Creek, Bloomer Mine residents and Nordheimer Campground), SIS-1803-A (no residents) and SIS-1707-A. Zone SIS-1707-B remains under a Warning, but residents are advised to be prepared as the situation evolves.
• Red Fire No evacuations or structures threatened.

Closures:

• Butler Fire: Crews may be working along Salmon River Road and impacts from the fire are likely, including smoke and falling debris. Residents should be prepared for potential traffic controls or temporary closures along the road between Butler Flat and Nordheimber Campground. Nordheimer and Oak Bottom Campgrounds are both closed.
• Red Fire: No closures or road impacts.

Weather & Fire Behavior: In the words of incident meteorologist James White, the area is defined as a “land of inversions.” This morning the relative humidities were in the 80s in the lower slopes and valleys and in the 30s-40s in the upper slopes and ridgelines. This is good for fuel moisture recovery and fire behavior. However, as temperatures continue to rise in the coming days and relative humidities decrease, fire behavior will be more active. Wind in the area is expected to be terrain controlled and mostly expected to be be localized and weak. Along the Salmon River as well as ridge tops (north) gusts up to 20 mph may be possible.

July 9, 2025 at 9:46 PM

Operational Update: CA Team 1 (CA-CIMT 1) is expected to assume command of the Orleans Complex by Saturday.

• Butler Fire: There was a lot of activity on the Butler Fire today, especially in the area of Butler Flat as the fire is backing into the top of the Butler drainage. Crews are in position to receive fire and protect communities and infrastructure along the Salmon River. There will be additional personnel in critical locations along Salmon River Road to monitor safety concerns in the area and carry out a road closure plan if needed. Work began to open pre-existing dozer lines (2024 Boise Fire) in coordination with resource advisors and cultural resource specialists. Although the southwestern portion of the fire is unstaffed, plans are in place to review possibilities for control features as more firefighting resources arrive.
• Red Fire: The Red Fire is estimated to be approximately 113 acres. Smokejumpers and crews are making good progress on putting fireline around the fire. Due to its remote location in the Siskiyou Wilderness, there are no structures threatened or evacuations. Cultural and resource advisors are working in coordination with firefighters working on the ground to protect valuable resources.
• Evacuations: Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office has evacuation warnings and orders in place for the Butler Fire. An Evacuation Order has been issued for zones SIS-1703 (no residents), SIS-1704 (Butler Creek, Lewis Creek, Bloomer Mine residents and Nordheimer Campground), and SIS-1803- A (no residents). Zone SIS-1707 remains under a Warning, but residents are advised to be prepared as the situation evolves.
• Closures: Due to potential for fire, smoke, and falling debris impacting Salmon River Road, residents should be prepared for potential delays and road closures along the road between Butler Flat and Nordheimber Campground. Nordheimer and Oak Bottom Campgrounds are both closed.

• Weather & Fire Behavior: Over the next few days the weather forecast predicts rising temperatures, decreasing relative humidities, and increasing mixing height for smoke dispersal. These three factors will cause an increase in fire behavior due to drying fuels and more oxygen to the fire. Winds are expected to remain mild though variable due to topography.
• Fire Safety & Prevention: Smoke is expected to settle into the valleys at night and persist during the day. Reduced visibility in the area and possible falling debris along roadways could impact driving safety in the area. Drivers are advised to use caution and check www.roads.dot.ca.gov for any closures before planning trips to the area. If traveling, please make sure to check that trailer chains are properly secured and not dragging and that vehicles are not throwing sparks from wheels, exhaust or other parts. Please report suspected wildfires by calling 911.

July 9, 2025 at 7:29 AM

There will be a community meeting about the Butler and Red Fires Wednesday, July 9 at 5 p.m. at the Karuk Department of Natural Resources located at 39051 Highway 96 in Orleans. For those unable to attend in person, a recording will be available on Facebook after the meeting.

The North Coast Interagency Incident Management Team is assuming command of the Red Fire at 0700 on July 9, 2025. It will be complexed with the Butler Fire.

Over the last few days, the Butler Fire has exhibited moderate behavior, backing down into the Butler and Lewis Creek drainages until weather conditions changed yesterday. The fire moved around to the back of Butler Mountain where it made uphill runs. This increased the overall fire footprint and intensity of observed fire behavior.

Today, aerial and ground resources began the day by assessing lines and engaging with the fire where safe to do so. The fire slopped over to the other side of Orleans Mountain Trail. Leadership is looking at control lines from the 2024 Boise Fire as a containment line. This includes Forest Road 10N04 near Forks of Salmon and the road from Horn Creek. From there, tying into Nordheimer Creek Road. Structure Groups continued to implement structure protection plans, with a focus on the Butler Flat Community’s water system. Structure protection and line preparation operations along Salmon River Road are a critical priority. Air resources were utilized to tame critical hotspots as well as assist with efforts on the Red Fire.

Tonight, firefighters will begin staffing a night shift. This will take advantage of higher humidity and moderated fire behavior to make progress on fireline construction and fire suppression efforts.

Closures: Nordheimer and Oak Bottom Campgrounds are closed due to wildfire and fire suppression activities. Crews will be working along Salmon River Road, which is likely to cause delays over the next several days.

Evacuations: Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office has issued evacuation warnings and orders for the Butler Fire. An Evacuation Order has been issued for zone SIS-1703 (no residents). Although zone SIS-1704 (Butler Creek, Lewis Creek, Bloomer Mine residents and Nordheimer Campground) remains at a Warning, residents are advised to stay aware of the dynamic situation. Warnings remain in place for zones SIS-1707 and SIS-1803-A (no residents). Check https://protect.genasys.com/search for the most up-to-date evacuation information.

Weather & Fire Behavior: Today, the fire exhibited active fire behavior as it moved downslope, as seen by the increases in acreage. Warm and slightly breezy weather conditions have made fuels receptive to burn. There is a critical window for containment efforts as the relative humidities remain between 50- 60%.

Fire Safety & Prevention: Wildfires are dynamic events and area residents and visitors should be aware of their surroundings, watch for increased traffic in the area and try to avoid being in the fire areas at www.siskiyoucounty.gov/ReadySiskiyou.

The public can help firefighters working on suppressing the Butler Fire and other fires in the area by helping prevent human-caused wildfires! Be careful with anything that can throw a spark whether working or playing in the woods! Report suspected wildfires by calling 911.