Eclipse Complex, Klamath NF

Fire at a glance (numbers)

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Eclipse Complex, Klamath NF. Ten miles northwest of Happy Camp, CA. Timber and brush. Minimal fire behavior with backing, creeping and smoldering. Road, trail and area closures in effect.

October 4, 2017 at 11:13 AM

Much of the work on the Eclipse Complex continues to focus on suppression repair. Firefighters are constructing water bars across firelines to prevent erosion and scattering cut material to stabilize disturbed soil on hand-lines and dozer lines. This work is being conducted with the assistance of Cultural and Resource Advisors.

Strategic Objectives are to contain fire spread on the Klamath National Forest portion of the Abney Fire, to protect the communities of Seiad Valley and Horse Creek and to minimize impact to private high value timberlands and to suppress fires in the complex utilizing a combination on confine, contain and point protection strategies to mitigate exposure and protect values at risk.

Fire Area Closure Order Terminated

Closure Order No. 17-05-803 has been terminated as of September 29, 2017. Residents and public are reminded that even though the area closure has been terminated, fire suppression and suppression repair activities continue. Pay attention as hand crews, heavy equipment and aerial assets continue to work in the area. Hot spots continue to be detected by Infrared flights, so the area should be entered with extreme caution. For more information, log onto inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/closures/5511

Fire Restrictions Lifted

Fire restrictions have been lifted on the Klamath National Forest. Forest visitors may now have campfires, use camp stoves and smoke. A California Campfire Permit is required to have a campfire. When using campfires, please make sure they are dead out before leaving the area. Contractors and others may now use welding equipment and generators.

September 24, 2017 at 10:14 AM

The Eclipse Complex fires were minimally active across the complex yesterday. Containment lines along Horse Creek, the east side of the Abney fire, will continue to be strengthened and patrolled. All other fire areas are being monitored as firefighters back-haul equipment and trash and identify dozer-lines and hand-lines requiring suppression repair. A suppression repair plan has been developed, with the assistance of cultural and resource advisors, for each area. Half of the suppression repair work in the Complex will be completed by 6PM today.

The Klamath National Forest will be managing the portion of the Complex area that burned within its boundaries. A local Type 3 Team is in place and will take over management of the fire at 6PM today. On the west side of the Oak fire, the Six Rivers National Forest has a similar Type 3 Team taking over at 6PM today to complete suppression repair of its land. Both Forests will continue to monitor the Complex until the fires are out.

SoCal Team 1, a Type 2 Team, has been in place for 2 weeks and is rotating out. We have enjoyed the serving the local communities and have appreciated your support and interest. Please have safe and quiet fall and winter seasons.

September 23, 2017 at 9:56 AM

Work on the Eclipse Complex is now focused on suppression repair. Firefighters are constructing water bars across firelines to prevent erosion and scattering cut material to stabilize disturbed soil on hand-lines and dozer lines. Fire management will be transitioning from a Type 2 to a local Type 3 fire team Sunday evening.

Oak Fire: The GO Road has been completely cleaned up with chipping work completed.Suppression repair of hand-lines along Forest Road 16N02 is continuing. An excavator will be in starting in this area today. Fire activity has been minimal.

Little Buck Fire: Fire activity has been very minimal with one smoke observed in the center of the burn. Firefighters will continue to monitor this fire.

Abney Fire (Miller Complex section located on the Klamath National Forest): Firefighters are patrolling the fire-line along the West Fork of Seiad Creek, mopping up the interior and cutting snags along roads. On the eastern perimeter firefighters are continuing to construct fireline and treat any snags that fall across Horse Creek.

Cedar Fire: Yesterday there was only smoke observed at the north end of the fire in the Red Butte Wilderness. Firefighters are back-hauling equipment and trash and will be repairing hand-lines.

September 21, 2017 at 10:03 AM

The evacuation warning for the community of Seiad has been lifted as of 9-20-17.

Firefighters are prioritizing actions in key areas:

The eastern perimeter of the Abney Fire to prevent spread into timber lands, and the southwestern corner to protect Seiad Valley.

The southwest perimeter of the Oak Fire to prevent movement across the Smith River drainage to protect the Big Flat Community.

Minimizing fire spread on the Little Buck Fire using a confine and contain strategy.

September 18, 2017 at 10:47 AM

Cooler temperatures and cloud cover are helping firefighters with suppression work in the two areas of concern: the west side of the Oak Fire along the Smith River drainage and the east side of the Abney Fire along the Horse Creek drainage.

No significant rain is expected today, but there will be spotty showers of light rain over the Complex with cloudy skies. Temperatures will be in the low 50’s on ridgetops and low 60’s in the valleys. Winds will be out of the west this morning and transition to the west-southwest this afternoon. Ridgetop winds will be 10-15 mph with gusts up to 20 mph.
Oak Fire: The fire was active again yesterday along the northwest side, near the intersection of Forest Roads 16N71 and 16N02, but did not spread much and was well-behaved, burning at low intensity. Fire continued to burn gently on the southwest perimeter in Harrington Creek, moving to the west but remaining on the east side of the Smith River drainage burning at low intensity. Acreage increases in this fire are mainly in this area.

Little Buck Fire: This fire was smokey again yesterday from interior burning. It did not move or increase in size. Firefighters are continuing to watch this fire, and will use water drops and retardant should it move.

Abney Fire (Miller Complex section located on the Klamath National Forest): West side: Fire-lines are complete from the south end up to Goodbye Drainage, a tributary to the West Fork of Seiad Creek. East side, Horse Creek: firefighters worked on snags falling across Horse Creek all day yesterday. All slop-overs were addressed to prevent spread and firefighters continue to be vigilant in this area today.

Other Fires in the Complex: All of the smaller fires are completely out. Fire lines around the Cedar Fire are holding. Smoke was observed in the interior and northern perimeter of the Cedar Fire again yesterday as this fire burns out.

Note: While we’ve seen a lot of success with firefighting efforts, there is still open line northeast of Seiad Valley on the Abney fire. We are working hard to finish containment lines, but until they are completed to our satisfaction, the evacuation warnings and fire area closures will remain in place.

The Evacuation Warning for Seiad Valley and Horse Creek area remains in place. Local officials are continuously evaluating as to when the Warning level may be lifted. The Evacuation Warning for Happy Camp has been lifted. To register for CodeRed, go to: www.co.siskiyou.ca.us/content/codered-emergency-alert-system.

September 17, 2017 at 9:57 AM

Yesterday was the last day of above-normal temperatures over the Eclipse Complex fire area. Active fire burned at low-intensity with 1 foot flame-lengths burning understory only. The two areas of concern where firefighters were engaged with the fire were on the west side of the Oak Fire and the east side of the Abney fire.

Cooler temperatures and higher humidity are predicted to start this evening. The first chance for a wetting rain will be this evening, with rain expected each day next week through Thursday. Rain is expected to be patchy over the Eclipse Complex area. Cooler, moist conditions will aid firefighting efforts, but may not be enough to fully contain all active areas in the Complex.

Oak Fire: Several areas along the west side were active yesterday. Along the northwest side, near the intersection of Forest Roads 16N71 and 16N02, fire actively backed off the road that that had been burned-out/back-burned last week. The remainder of the fire did not spread much and was well-behaved, burning at low intensity. Just east of Blue Ridge, fire made a small run up the Smith River drainage but was halted by the dozer line. This left a small island of unburned vegetation that may be back-burned today to keep areas near the perimeter black. Fire continued to burn gently in Harrington Creek, moving to the west but remaining on the east side of the Smith River drainage. The fire also burned south in this drainage at a low intensity.

Little Buck Fire: This fire produced smoke yesterday and grew slowly towards the north end of the Oak Fire. Firefighters continue to watch this fire, and will use water drops and retardant should it move in other directions.

Abney Fire (Miller Complex section located on the Klamath National Forest): West side, West Fork of Seiad Creek: Firelines continue to be improved. East side, Horse Creek: Another slop-over occurred today with a burning snag falling across the creek in the same vicinity as yesterday.Firefighters responded quickly and used air support. The slop-over was contained at 0.5 acres.

Other Fires in the Complex: All of the smaller fires are completely out. Fire lines around the Cedar Fire are holding. Smoke was observed in the interior and northern perimeter of the Cedar Fire.

Note: While we’ve seen a lot of success with firefighting efforts, there is still open line northeast of Seiad Valley on the Abney fire. That is why the evacuation warnings and fire area closures remain in place.The Evacuation Warning for Seiad Valley and Horse Creek area remains in place. Local officials are continuously evaluating as to when the Warning level may be lifted. The Evacuation Warning for Happy Camp has been lifted. To register for CodeRed, go to:www.co.siskiyou.ca.us/content/codered-emergency-alert-system.

While there are no current evacuations in Del Norte County due to the Eclipse Complex, residents are encouraged to utilize the Del Norte Community Alert System to remain informed about issues that may affect local safety. Go to preparedelnorte.com to sign up.

Fire Area Closure Orders: Closures have been executed for roads and trails, including the Pacific Crest Trail, near many of the wildfires, closing them to public entry to provide for safety. Additional information about the closures and fires is available on Inciweb atinciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/closures/5511 and at key locations in Happy Camp, Seiad Valley and Gasquet.

September 12, 2017 at 11:52 AM

Red Flag Warning in Effect Over the Eclipse Complex Area.

Yesterday, three small lightning fires were found from the storm last week. These small fires were north of the Oak fire. Firefighters used helicopter water drops to suppress them and will continue to monitor and identify any new fires.

Miller Complex Abney Fire (section located on the Klamath National Forest)
Containment lines on the north and the east side from Forest Road 46N50 north to the Pacific Crest Trail of the Abney fire have been completed. Crews are focusing efforts on the south side of the Abney fire along Horse Creek and the southern portion of Forest Road 46N50 to secure containment lines and protect the Seiad Valley community.

Oak Fire: Containment lines are in place on the east side of the Oak fire. The fire continues to be monitored in the Siskiyou Wilderness on the north side. The fire is burning in the northern part of the Smith River drainage. Suppression efforts are focused on completing contingency lines to the west. These contingency lines should be completed by end of shift today. Suppression repair will begin working on dozer lines along the southern containment lines as the fire is out in this area.

Cedar Fire:
This fire has not increased in size within the Eclipse Complex boundary. There was some activity on the northeast side yesterday as the Knox fire merged with the Cedar fire. Crews will continue to monitor the fire.

Cloudy skies in the morning will moderate fire behavior, however scattered afternoon thunderstorms are expected and may result in gusty winds, lightning and heavy rains over the fire area. A red flag warning is currently in effect until 8PM this evening over the fire area due to abundant lightning and dry fuels.

While there are no current evacuations in Del Norte County, residents are encouraged to utilize the Del Norte Community Alert System to remain informed about issues that may affect local safety. Go to prepareddelnorte.com to sign up.

Fire Area Closure Orders: Closures have been executed for roads and trails, including the Pacific Crest Trail, near many of the wildfires, closing them to public entry to provide for safety. Additional information about the closures and fires is available on Inciweb at inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/closures/5511 and at key locations in Happy Camp, Seiad Valley and Gasquet.

September 11, 2017 at 9:06 AM

No infrared flight was available last night. A National Guard drone has been requested to assist with mapping remaining heat sources in the South Fork of the Smith River drainage tomorrow. Helicopters are being used to dowse hot spots to around the fire area.

Southern California Incident Management Team 1 (Fogle) arrived yesterday to the incident and will shadow California Interagency Incident Management Team 1 today. Transfer of command will occur today at 6:00 p.m.

Miller Complex Abney Fire (section located on the Klamath National Forest)
The south flank of the Abney Fire is now considered contained, while crews seek out remaining heat on the fire’s east flank inside containment lines. Crews and helicopters are now mopping up remaining hotspots along the completed line on the Abney Fire’s east flank from the 46N50 Road north to the Pacific Crest Trail. Contingency lines are in place east of Horse Creek along the Gap Fire burn area.

Oak Fire – Crews are improving containment lines on the fire’s west and southwest flank near the Go Road. The Oak Fire showed little growth on its west flank along Blue Ridge and the South Fork of the Smith River. Remaining areas of heat are being worked with water drops from helicopters. Crews are in position to hold the containment lines should additional fire burn upslope from the river toward the ridgeline. On the east side of the Oak Fire, crews have completed lines north to Kelly Lake to ensure long-term protection of Indian Creek from any remaining fire activity in the Siskiyou Wilderness. A suppression repair group has begun repairing dozer lines on the fire’s south flank.

Cedar Fire: Crews will continue to patrol along Thompson Creek and the fire’s south flank where containment lines are secure. The northeast flank of the fire has stalled in the Red Buttes Wilderness where it has run out fuel in rocky crags at higher elevations.

New starts from last week’s thunderstorms are being monitored by helicopter and water is being dropped to extinguish any remaining hot spots.

Temperatures will warm again, with clear to partly cloudy skies and gusty northeast winds. Smoke maybe more noticeable, but still much improved. Highs will reach the upper 80s to low 90s in valleys, 70s with a few lower 80s at higher elevations. Humidity will notably decrease. Ridge top winds will reach 15- 20 mph. A warming and drying trend will continue through Tuesday, with an increased chance of thunderstorms expected for mid-week. Detailed smoke forecasts and information on smoke impacts can be found on the California Smoke Blog at californiasmokeinfo.blogspot.com.

The Evacuation Warning for Seiad Valley and Horse Creek area remains in place. Local officials are continuously evaluating as to when the Warning level may be lifted. To register for CodeRed, go to: www.co.siskiyou.ca.us/content/codered-emergency-alert-system.

September 11, 2017 at 7:17 AM

The Eclipse Complex was mapped at 96,151 acres on 9-7-17 and is 25% contained. The extended forecast calls for a warming and drying trend that will continue through Tuesday.

California Team 1 will be transitioning with Southern California Team 1 tomorrow. Southern California Team 1 will assume command of the fire at 6PM.

September 9, 2017 at 12:06 PM

Miller Complex Abney Fire (section located on the Klamath National Forest)
Fire line along the 48N20 and 46N50 Roads above Seiad Valley are now considered contained and the threat to Seiad Valley and Horse Creek is greatly diminished. This line was secured by allowing for low intensity fire to back down the slopes to containment lines. Crews have now completed line on the Abney Fire’s east flank from the 46N50 Road north to the Pacific Crest Trail. Contingency lines are in place east of Horse Creek along the Gap Fire burn area.

Oak Fire – Rain across the Oak Fire has significantly decreased fire behavior across the burn area. Crews will use favorable post rain conditions to seek out options to go direct on remaining open lines to cut off the fires spread on the west flank near Blue Ridge and the South Fork of Smith River. Crews have improved containment lines on the GO Road should the fire spread south out of the Siskiyou Wilderness. Crews plan to complete lines north to Kelly Lake to ensure long-term protection of Indian Creek from any remaining fire activity in the Siskiyou Wilderness.

Cedar Fire: Crews will continue to patrol along Thompson Creek. Contingency lines along existing roads have been constructed on the west side of the Cedar Fire to prevent it from spreading west. Handline along the fire’s east flank is preventing the fire from spreading east. Crews are monitoring the northward spread of the Cedar Fire toward Red Butte Wilderness.

Crews along with local resources have identified new fire starts using infrared flight information and have been successful in containing most of them. Today crews will work to suppress the remaining new fires and patrol for any new ones.

Temperatures will warm again with clear to partly cloudy skies. Smoke maybe more noticeable, but still much improved. Highs will reach the upper 80s to low 90s in valleys, 70s with a few lower 80s at higher elevations. Humidity will notably decrease. A warming and drying trend will continue through Tuesday, with an increased chance of thunderstorms expected for mid-week. Detailed smoke forecasts and information on smoke impacts can be found on the California Smoke Blog at californiasmokeinfo.blogspot.com.

The Evacuation Warning for Happy Camp has been lifted. The Evacuation Warning for Seiad Valley and Horse Creek area remains in place. Local officials are continuously evaluating as to when the Warning level may be lifted. To register for CodeRed, go to: www.co.siskiyou.ca.us/content/codered-emergency-alert-system.

September 8, 2017 at 8:29 AM

Miller Complex – Abney (Branch IV)
Contain the southern and eastern portions of the Abney Fire burning on the Klamath National Forest to protect the communities of Seiad and Horse Creek, and private timberlands.

Oak Fire – West Side:
-Resources will continue to patrol, hold, and fire the 16N02 road from Bear Basin Butte south toward the intersection with the 16N18 road. Strategic firing will limit intensity of fire spread upslope from the South Fork Smith River, and confine the fire to the SF Smith River drainage.
– Heavy equipment work has been completed on indirect line following the 16N02 road southwest from Drop Point 300 (3/4 mile north of Muslatt Mtn.)to the GO road. Crews are needed to complete remaining handlines.
-Continued scouting of contingency line on Fox Ridge and alternatives east of Big Flat.

Oak Fire – East Side:
-Division Z and F will be unstaffed but patrolled due to limited resources.
-If road are sufficiently dry, continue with road prep, handline, and dozer line construction for indirect containment from DP70 (near Baldy Mtn.) north to Kelly Lake to contain any fire spread from moving east toward Happy Camp once crews and equipment become available.
– Strengthen containment lines and continue to mop-up where needed to reduce threat of escape.

Cedar Fire:
– Due to limited resource availability, the Cedar Fire will be down-staffed to patrol for the next operational period.
– Continue to monitor Thompson Creek from DP4 north to the Red Buttes Wilderness.
– Monitor the spread of the eastern perimeter into the Red Buttes Wilderness.

September 7, 2017 at 8:34 AM

A Community Meeting for the Eclipse Complex and Abney Fire (Klamath National Forest) will be held Thursday, September 7, 2017 at 6 p.m. at the Karuk Gymnasium, 64236 Second Avenue, Happy Camp, California.

California Interagency Incident Management Team 1 will provide a briefing on the status of the Eclipse Complex and Abney Fire burning on the Klamath and Six Rivers National Forests. The team will attempt to livestream the meeting on the Klamath National Forest Facebook page and will record the event for later posting in the event livestreaming is not feasible.

Miller Complex Abney Fire (section located on the Klamath National Forest) – Crews have continued to hold the 46N50 Road as the fire has backed down to the road way. On the fire’s east flank, crews have been able to establish direct line along Horse Creek cutting off the fire’s eastward movement. Crews also reopened the Gap Fire dozer line as a contingency line to protect the Horse Creek area. Contingency lines have also been reestablished to keep the fire from progressing south into the populated south Seiad Valley. Structure protection engines remain in place in the Seiad and Horse Creek area.

Today, fire crews are focused on holding and patrolling the 46N50 Road to ensure the fire remains to the north. Firefighters will work to strengthen and lengthen control lines on the west side of Horse Creek. Crews will also work to remove brush along the Seiad Valley Road on the edge of the Goff Fire and open dozer lines on the northern boundary of the Gap Fire burn footprint. Structure protection engines will continue preparation work to defend structures and homes in Seiad Valley and Horse Creek. Residents and visitors should use caution driving on roads in the area due to increased firefighter traffic.

Oak Fire – Crews held the Oak Fire east of the Blue Ridge and suppressed spot fires near the ridge line in eastern Del Norte County. The Oak Fire has slowly spread south and north on the east side of the Smith River’s South Fork in the Siskiyou Wilderness. Heavy equipment and crews will continue constructing indirect line to protect the Big Flat area should the fire cross Blue Ridge.

Little heat is showing on the Oak Fire’s eastern flank where crews continue to patrol and mop-up around Happy Camp. Crews will continue improving primary and contingency lines west of Indian Creek from Boulder Peak north to Kelly Lake. The fire may not reach this line, but it is in place should the fire in the Siskiyou Wilderness move east.

Cedar Fire: Crews will continue to mop and patrol along Thompson Creek. Contingency lines along existing roads have been constructed on the west side of the Cedar Fire to prevent it from spreading west. Handline along the fire’s east flank is preventing the fire from spreading east. Crews are monitoring the northward spread of the Cedar Fire toward Red Butte Wilderness. The fire has crossed the ridgeline between Pyramid Peak and Figurehead Mountain at the wilderness boundary, where it has shown little movement due to sparse fuels.

Thunderstorms with erratic winds will continue in the area this morning and diminish after 11 p.m. Thursday with an increase in the potential for wetting rains. A flash flood watch has been issued for areas in and around burn footprints. Northwest winds 5-8 mph with gust to 12 mph are expected on ridges with light winds in the valleys.

Heavy smoke is expected to continue in valley bottoms below an inversion layer. Residents of Happy Camp seeking clean air may visit the Karuk Senior Center between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Detailed smoke forecasts and information on smoke impacts can be found on the California Smoke Blog at californiasmokeinfo.blogspot.com.

The Limited Evacuation Warning remains in effect for the area directly southwest of the Happy Camp Airport through the Clear Creek Area. There is also an Evacuation Warning in place for residents in the Seiad Valley area. To receive updates on changes to evacuation notices in Siskiyou County, residents should register with CodeRed, which has been instituted by the county for rapid reverse 911 automated calls. To register for CodeRed, go to: www.co.siskiyou.ca.us/content/codered-emergency-alert-system.

September 6, 2017 at 8:43 PM

Moderate backing group torching. Evacuation Warnings in place for the community of Seiad Valley and Horse Creek. Resources are assisting on the Abney Fire which is threatening Seiad Valley. Threats to 65 private residences along Hwy 96. There is controlled traffic on Highway 96. Red Flag Warning in effect through 11pm Thursday for abundant lightning, dry fuels and erratic thunderstorm winds.

September 6, 2017 at 10:21 AM

Miller Complex Abney Fire (section located on the Klamath National Forest) – Crews have held the 46N50 Road as the fire has backed down to the road way. Crews also reopened the Gap Fire dozer line to protect the Horse Creek area. Contingency lines have also been reestablished to keep the fire from progressing south into the populated south Seiad Valley. Structure protection engines remain in place in the Seiad and Horse Creek area.

Today, fire crews are focused on holding and patrolling the 46N50 Road to ensure the fire remains to the north. Crews will also work to remove brush along the Seiad Valley Road on the edge of the Goff Fire and open dozer lines on the northern boundary of the Gap Fire burn footprint. Structure protection engines will continue to work to prepare to defend structures and homes in Seiad Valley and Horse Creek. Residents and visitors should use caution driving on roads in the area due to increased firefighter traffic.

Oak Fire – Crews held the Oak Fire east of the Blue Ridge and suppressed spot fires near the ridge line in eastern Del Norte County. The Oak Fire has slowly spread south and north on the east side of the Smith River’s South Fork in the Siskiyou Wilderness. Heavy equipment and crews will continue constructing indirect line to protect the Big Flat area should the fire cross Blue Ridge.

Cedar Fire: Crews will continue to mop and patrol along Thompson Creek. Contingency lines along existing roads have been constructed on the west side of the Cedar Fire to prevent it from spreading west. Handline along the fire’s east flank is preventing the fire from spreading east. Crews are monitoring the northward spread of the Cedar Fire toward Red Butte Wilderness. The fire has crossed the ridgeline between Pyramid Peak and Figurehead Mountain at the wilderness boundary, where it has shown little movement due to sparse fuels.

A Red Flag Waring remains in effect until 11:00 p.m. Thursday for abundant lightning, dry fuels and erratic thunderstorm winds. With the change in weather, humidity is expected to be higher and temperatures will be cooler.

Heavy smoke is expected to continue in valley bottoms below an inversion layer. Residents of Happy Camp seeking clean air may visit the Karuk Senior Center between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Detailed smoke forecasts and information on smoke impacts can be found on the California Smoke Blog at californiasmokeinfo.blogspot.com.

The Limited Evacuation Warning remains in effect for the area directly southwest of the Happy Camp Airport through the Clear Creek Area. There is also an Evacuation Warning in place for residents in the Seiad Valley area. To receive updates on changes to evacuation notices in Siskiyou County, residents s

September 5, 2017 at 9:20 AM

In Del Norte County, strong northeast winds pushed a spot fire over the Smith River’s South Fork where it ran up to the ridge top of Blue Ridge south of Hurdygurdy Butte. Crews were able to hold the fire east of Blue Ridge as the fire made several runs toward the ridge line. A spot fire that made it over the ridge was caught by crews last night. Additional line construction was completed in the vicinity of Big Flat. Fire lines around Happy Camp have held and there has been no additional growth in the last 48 hours. Fire movement on the Cedar Fire has been limited to slow northward spread in the Red Butte Wilderness.

Today, crews will work to hold the Oak Fire east of Blue Ridge above the South Fork of the Smith River.

Oak Fire: On the Oak Fire’s southeast flank, crews will patrol, hold and mop-up containment lines near Benjamin Creek. The Oak Fire has reached Highway 96 and stopped. One-way traffic control on Highway 96 has ended. Crews will continue improving primary and contingency lines west of Indian Creek from Boulder Peak north to Kelly Lake. On the Oak Fire’s western flank, heavy equipment and crews will continue constructing indirect line to protect the Big Flat area should the fire cross Blue Ridge. Southwest winds today should be favorable for crews working to hold Blue Ridge as the winds will be pushing the fire back toward the South Fork.

The weather forecast calls for more humid air and some cloud cover that will keep temperatures on the fire cooler with temperatures ranging from 75 to 80 degrees. Winds will be calm in the valleys with ridge top winds from the west at 5-8 mph, gusting to 12 mph in the afternoon.

The Limited Evacuation Warning remains in effect for the area directly southwest of the Happy Camp Airport through the Clear Creek Area. To receive updates on changes to evacuation notices, residents should register with CodeRed, which has been instituted by Siskiyou County for rapid reverse 911 automated calls. To register for CodeRed, go to: www.co.siskiyou.ca.us/content/codered-emergency-alert-system. While there are no current evacuations in Del Norte County, residents are encouraged to utilize the Del Norte Community Alert System powered by Everbridge to remain informed about issues that may affect local safety. Go to prepareddelnorte.com to sign up.

Fire Area Closure Orders: Closures have been executed for roads and trails near many of the wildfires, including the Pacific Crest Trail, closing them to public entry to provide for safety. Additional information about the closures and fires is available on Inciweb at inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/closures/5511 and at key locations in Happy Camp, Seiad Valley and Gasquet.

September 4, 2017 at 8:06 AM

Seiad Valley, Abney Fire Update·: Crews have completed a key dozer line across Seiad Valley between the Goff and Gap Fire burn scars near the 47N17 Road. This line is key to keep the fire from progressing south into the populated south Seiad Valley. Crews also worked to reopen dozer and handline along the Goff Fire burn scar behind homes on the north side of Seiad Valley Road. Today, fire crews are focused on improving lines on the Goff Fire burn scar’s south flank and begin a new line across the Seiad Valley along the 46N50 Road to catch the fire higher up in Seiad Valley. Crews will also work to remove brush along the Seiad Valley Road and open dozer lines on the north boundary of the Gap Fire burn scar. Structure protection engines will begin work to prepare to defend structures and homes in Seiad Valley and Horse Creek. Residences should use caution driving on roads in the area due to increased firefighter traffic.

There is an Evacuation Warning in effect for portions of Seiad Valley: residents located on both sides of Seiad Creek Road from State Highway 96 to the US Forest Service System Road 48N02; residents on the Old Seiad Creek Road in its entirety; and residents on the Ladd Road in its entirety.

Due to technical issues, the IR flight planned for the previous two evenings (9/2-9/3) were canceled. Acres will be updated after the next scheduled IR flight.

The occasional one-way road closures and regular 7AM-8AM and 7PM-8PM full road closures on Highway 96 have been lifted. Remember to use caution driving through areas of dense smoke and remain on the lookout for firefighting vehicles.

September 3, 2017 at 7:42 PM

Moderate backing group torching. Controlled traffic continues on Hwy 96 due to the Oak fire. The Oak fire is currently 71,790 acres, 26% contained. Cedar fire is 8,713 acres, 24% contained. These fires are being managed with a confine strategy. Multiple forest roads and trails including 15 trails in the Red Buttes wilderness have been closed. Threat remains to 65 residences along the Hwy 96 corridor, private land, private timber plantations, power and communications infrastructure, and natural and cultural resources of the Karuk Tribe along with Salmon habitat. Red Flag Warning for the fire area from 8PM Sunday through 9AM Monday for gusty winds and low RH. Federal ground and air resources committed.

September 3, 2017 at 10:43 AM

There was no IR flight last night, so acreage has not changed since September 2, 2017: The Eclipse Complex is 80,503 acres and 25% contained.

Beginning at 0600 9/3/17, fire personnel from the Eclipse Complex will be staffing the portion of the Abney Fire that is burning on the Klamath National Forest.

There will continue to be one-way controlled traffic and/or occasional temporary closures of Highway 96 from west (south) of Happy Camp to The Clear Creek Ranch due to fire activity. From 7 am to 8 am and 7 pm to 8 pm the road will be shut down for fire and emergency vehicles only during these times. There may be longer delays due to dense smoke and/or debris on HWY 96 in the fire area.

Communities along the Klamath River are experiencing degraded air quality due to the numerous fires in the area and limiting visibility on forest roads and state highways. Driving in smoky conditions can be dangerous. Please drive slowly, and with your lights on to ensure you are seen by other drivers. Be alert for firefighters and fire equipment along Hwy. 96 from Seiad Valley to Clear Creek Ranch.

September 1, 2017 at 10:08 AM

Oak Fire: 57,500 acres

Cedar Fire: 8,450 Acres (includes Four Mile Fire)

Young Fire: 2,800 acres

While crews continue strengthening and lengthening containment lines around communities, the Oak Fire spread north up Clear Creek in the Siskiyou Wildness and has nearly merged with the Young Fire. The Oak Fire remains east of the South Fork of the Smith River and is holding there. Areas between the Cedar and Four Mile fires burned out and the two fires have merged. They will now be referred to as the Cedar Fire. Containment lines west of Indian Creek are near completion to protect the Indian Creek drainage, should the Oak Fire move east in the Siskiyou Wilderness. Key primary containment lines are holding and being strengthened on the Four Mile Fire north of Thompson Creek and the Oak Fire along Benjamin Creek west of Happy Camp. Containment of these lines will require several days of additional patrol and mop-up by crews to remove any remaining heat near the lines. Crews made progress on the Oak Fire’s western side, constructing containment and contingency lines from Bear Basin Butte along Blue Ridge toward Sugarloaf Mountain. A contingency line is also being built from Ship Mountain south to Muslatt Mountain.

Today, fire crews are focused on strengthening primary containment lines, while extending important contingency lines to protect Indian Creek and mopping up and holding existing containments lines around Happy Camp.

Oak Fire: On the Oak Fire’s southeast flank, crews will continue to improve, hold and mop-up containment lines near Benjamin Creek and other developed areas along Highway 96. The fire is expected to continue backing down to Highway 96, where roll-out of material continues. One-way traffic control will continue west of Happy Camp to keep the highway open while providing for public and firefighter safety. Crews will continue improving primary and contingency lines west of Indian Creek from Boulder Peak north to Kelly Lake. On the Oak Fire’s western flank, heavy equipment and crews will continue constructing indirect line construction along Blue Ridge, west of the South Fork of the Smith River, as a contingency line should the fire spot across the River. The Oak Fire is expected to continue to move north up Clear and Preston creek drainages and will likely join with the Young Fire today.

Cedar Fire: Crews will continue to mop and patrol along Thompson Creek. Contingency lines along existing roads have been constructed on the west side of the Cedar Fire to prevent it from spreading west. Handline along the Fire’s east flank is preventing the fire from spreading east. Crews are monitoring the eastward spread of the Cedar Fire toward Red Butte Wilderness. The fire has crossed the ridgeline between Pyramid Peak and Figurehead Mountain at the wilderness boundary, where it showed little movement due to sparse fuels.

Young Fire: Growth of the Young Fire has been held in check on the west and south flanks by a 2015 burn scar. On the Young Fire’s east flank, the fire continues to back into the Clear Creek Drainage toward the Oak Fire.

A Red Flag Warning remains in effect until 9:00 a.m. today. Gusty northeast winds are expected to develop today with extremely dry conditions. Wind speeds are expected to be 10-15 mph with gusts to 20 on ridge tops. Temperatures are expected to range from 85 to 100.

Heavy smoke is expected to continue in valley bottoms below an inversion layer.Residents of Happy Camp seeking clean air may visit the Karuk Senior Center between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Detailed smoke forecasts and information on smoke impacts can be found on the California Smoke Blog at californiasmokeinfo.blogspot.com.

Highway 96 west of Happy Camp remains open with the following restrictions for public and firefighter safety: The highway is closed each morning from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. and each evening from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. to allow for heavy firefighter traffic as day and night shifts rotate. During all other hours, one-way traffic control with a pilot car will be in place from 2.5 miles southwest of Happy Camp to south of Clear Creek Ranch. Delays range from 30 minutes to more than an hour, due to fire activity, heavy smoke and falling rock debris. This traffic control will be in place for as long as necessary to ensure safety. Refer to Caltrans for the latest information on road closures: www.dot.ca.gov/hq/roadinfo/display.php?page=sr36.

The Limited Evacuation Warning remains in effect for the area directly southwest of the Happy Camp Airport through the Clear Creek Area. To receive updates on changes to evacuation notices, residents should register with CodeRed, which has been instituted by Siskiyou County for rapid reverse 911 automated calls. To register for CodeRed, go to:www.co.siskiyou.ca.us/content/codered-emergency-alert-system.

August 31, 2017 at 10:45 AM

A community meeting is planned for 6PM today (Thursday, Aug., 31th) in Gasquet at the Gasquet Ranger Station.

Yesterday crews built on the prior day’s successes, nearing completion of several key contingency lines west and east of Indian Valley. The line west of Thompson Creek and west of Indian Creek are intended as an extra measure of protection of the Indian Creek drainage. Key primary containment lines are holding and being strengthened on the Four Mile Fire north of Thompson Creek and Oak Fire along Benjamin Creek west of Happy Camp. Containment of these lines will require several days of additional patrol and mop-up by crews to remove any remaining heat near the lines. Crews are working to increase containment on the west flank of both the Four Mile and Cedar fires. On the Oak Fire’s western flank, the South Fork of the Smith River continues to hold the Oak Fire to the east as the fire advances slowly north and northeast. The north flank of the Oak Fire became active deep within the Siskiyou Wilderness, pushing north up Clear and Preston creeks toward the Young Fire. As a precaution, crews have begun preparation of a new control line west of the Smith River, from Bear Basin Butte along Blue Ridge to Sugarloaf Mountain.

Today, fire crews are focused on strengthening and lengthening primary containment lines, while extending important contingency lines to protect Indian Creek and ensure protection of communities west of the South Fork of the Smith River.

Oak Fire: On the Oak Fire’s southeast flank, crews will continue to improve, hold and mop-up containment lines near Benjamin Creek and other developed areas along Highway 96. The fire is expected to continue backing down to Highway 96, where roll-out of material continues. One-way traffic control will continue west of Happy Camp to keep the highway open while providing for public and firefighter safety. A new contingency line is nearly in place west of Indian Creek from Boulder Peak north to Kelly Lake. On the Oak Fire’s western flank, heavy equipment and crews are constructing indirect line construction along Blue Ridge, west of the South Fork of the Smith River, as a contingency line should the fire spot across the River. The Oak Fire is expected to continue to move north up Clear and Preston creek drainages.

Cedar and Four Mile Fires: The southward movement of the Four Mile Fire has been successfully checked where crews continue to mop and patrol along Thompson Creek. Contingency lines along existing roads have been constructed west of both the Four Mile and Cedar fires to prevent the westward movement of these two fires. Handline along the Four Mile Fire’s east flank is preventing the fire from spreading east. Crews are monitoring the eastward spread of the Cedar Fire toward Red Butte Wilderness. The fire has crossed the ridgeline between Pyramid Peak and Figurehead Mountain at the wilderness boundary, where it showed little movement due to sparse fuels.

Young Fire: Growth of the Young Fire has been held in check on the west and south flanks by a 2015 burn scar. On the Young Fire’s east flank, the fire continues to back into the Clear Creek Drainage.

A Red Flag Warning has been issued from 5:00 p.m. today through 9:00 a.m. Friday. Gusty northeast winds are expected to develop today with extremely dry conditions. Wind speeds are expected to be 6-11 mph with gusts to 20 on ridge tops. Temperatures will be in the 80s to low 90s.

Highway 96 west of Happy Camp remains open with the following restrictions for public and firefighter safety: The highway is closed each morning from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. and each evening from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. to allow for heavy firefighter traffic as day and night shifts rotate. During all other hours, one-way traffic control with a pilot car will be in place from 2.5 miles southwest of Happy Camp to south of Clear Creek Ranch. Delays range from 30 minutes to more than an hour, due to fire activity, heavy smoke and falling rock debris. This traffic control will be in place for as long as necessary to ensure safety. Refer to Caltrans for the latest information on road closures: www.dot.ca.gov/hq/roadinfo/display.php?page=sr36.

One Less Spark – One Less Wildlife: Firefighters ask that you be extremely careful and prevent new fire starts. Review fire restrictions on the Klamath and Six Rivers national forest websites and help firefighters.

August 30, 2017 at 7:51 AM

The Eclipse Complex is now 65,250 acres and 24% contained.

A community meeting is planned for 6PM today (Wednesday, Aug., 30th) in Happy Camp at the Karuk Gymnasium.

August 29, 2017 at 9:25 AM

The western flank of the Oak Fire remains east of the south fork of Smith River. Crews are scoping potential contingency lines between Bear Basin Butte and Sugarloaf Mountain in case fire activity does cross the Smith River.

August 28, 2017 at 8:10 AM

Communities along the Klamath River are experiencing degraded air quality due to the numerous fires in the area and limiting visibility on forest roads and state highways.

Driving in smokey conditions can be dangerous. Please drive slowly, and with your lights on to ensure you are seen by other drivers. Be alert for firefighters and fire equipment along Hwy. 96 from Seiad Valley to Clear Creek Ranch.

Tonight at 6:00 p.m. there will be a transfer of command from Northern California Interagency Incident Management Team 1, Curtis Coots Incident Commander to California Interagency Incident Management Team 1, Jerry McGowan Incident Commander.

August 27, 2017 at 10:45 AM

The Eclipse Complex (CA-KNF-6098) now consists of three fires and has burned a total of 50,850 acres; the complex is 24% contained, with 1,033 personnel assigned. On August 20 the East Fire merged with the Cedar Fire and on August 24, the Clear and Prescott Fires merged with the Oak Fire.

Oak Fire: The fire is continuing to back down to Highway 96, tying into fire lines constructed around the private properties in the Clear Creek area. Crews continued working to build line and burn around a spot fire near Benjamin Creek. They are also using existing roads, dozer lines, and strategic ignitions when appropriate to construct a contingency line between the spot fire and the town of Happy Camp. Fire behavior on the Oak Fire remained moderate throughout the day yesterday, as the inversion remained in place. Weather today should be hotter and dryer, with a possibility of less smoke allowing for more active fire behavior.

Cedar and Four Mile Fires: These fires continued to grow slowly on Friday under the inversion. Crews continue to construct and improve containment lines using existing roads, dozer lines, and strategic ignitions when appropriate. The priority is to control an area of the fire in the southwest corner of the Four Mile Fire, near Thompson Creek.

Background: The Clear Fire grew out five lightning strikes from nocturnal thunderstorms on the evening of July 24th and the morning of July 25th, 2017. Klamath National Forest firefighters successfully completed initial attack response on approximately 40 additional lightning-caused fires. Due to steep inaccessible terrain, heavy fuel loading, thunder cells, and other safety concerns, neither helitack rappelers nor smokejumpers were able to access the strikes that became the Clear Fire. By the afternoon of July 26th, the estimated combined size of the five fires was approximately 75 acres. Although ground forces attempted to suppress them, the steep inaccessible terrain and heavy fuel loading made it impossible to successfully contain these strikes, and they eventually grew together to form the Clear Fire, which was later merged with the Prescott and Oak Fires.
The Oak, Prescott, Cedar, Four Mile and East Fires were ignited by a multi-day thunderstorm pattern in early August, and detected from August 8-12. Approximately forty additional lightning-caused fires were suppressed by the Forest during that time period. Due to their location, heavy fuels, and steep, inaccessible terrain, resources were not able to stop these fires, and they eventually became known as the Eclipse Complex.

Traffic Conditions: Highway 96 west of Happy Camp, will be closed each morning and evening for an hour or so from about 7:00 to 8:00am and 7:00 to 8:00pm to allow for heavy firefighting traffic as day and night shifts rotate. There are one-way traffic controls from about 2.5 miles southwest of Happy Camp to just south of the Clear Creek Ranch. There might be longer delays due to rocks and other debris falling onto the roadway. This traffic control and closure will be in place for as long as necessary. Refer to CalTrans for the latest information on road closures: http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/roadinfo/display.php?page=sr96.

Limited Evacuation Warning: Evacuation warnings are still in effect for a limited area directly southwest of the Happy Camp airport through the Clear Creek area. Notifications were made as appropriate, based on current fire conditions, for people in those areas. Residents should make sure that they are registered to receive reverse 911 auto-calls. Siskiyou County has instituted a rapid emergency notification service called CodeRED® which would be implemented if there was an Evacuation Order. For more information, or to register for CodeRED® go to: http://www.co.siskiyou.ca.us/content/codered-emergency-alert-system.

Residents should be aware that they may see fire engines and crews working in and around their neighborhoods. These firefighters are identifying structure locations and documenting what it would take to protect them, should the fire impact the area. Their presence is a precautionary measure and will be a benefit for future safety planning needs.

Emergency Closure Orders: Closures have been executed for roads and trails near many of the wildfires including the Pacific Crest Trail, closing them to public entry to provide for safety. Additional information about the closures and the fires is available at the Inciweb link: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/5511/, and at key locations in Happy Camp and Seiad Valley.

Wildfire Action Plan Checklist
Create an evacuation plan that includes:

A designated emergency meeting location outside the fire or hazard area. This is critical to determine who has safely evacuated from the affected area.
Several different escape routes from your home and community. Practice these often so everyone in your family is familiar in case of emergency.
An evacuation plan for pets and large animals such as horses and other livestock.
A Family Communication Plan that designates an out-of-area friend or relative as a point of contact to act as a single source of communication among family members in case of separation. (It is easier to call or message one person and let them contact others, than to try and call everyone when phone, cell and internet systems can be overloaded or limited during a disaster.) For more information, check out http://www.readyforwildfire.org/Pre-Evacuation-Preparation/.

August 23, 2017 at 9:25 AM

Community Meetings: There will be a public meeting tonight at 6:00 pm at the Seiad Volunteer Fire Department. This meeting is scheduled to provide updated information to the public about the fires in the Eclipse Complex.

Limited Evacuation Warning: Evacuation warnings are still in effect for a limited area directly southwest of the airport through the Clear Creek area. Notifications were made as appropriate, based on current fire conditions, for people in those areas. Firefighters continued to make good progress on Tuesday tying the Oak fire line into Highway 96 as crews worked diligently to steer the fire southwest toward the Clear fire which is 79% contained.

Make sure you are registered to receive the reverse 911 auto-calls. If you do not have a land line, have your cell phone registered! Siskiyou County has instituted a rapid emergency notification service called CodeRED® which would be implemented if there was an Evacuation Order. For more information, or to register for CodeRED go to: http://www.co.siskiyou.ca.us/content/codered-emergency-alert-system. Use a friends computer or go to the local library if you need to register and do not have access to a computer.

Fire Situation: The Eclipse Complex (CA-KNF-6098) consists of five fires and has burned a total of 37,445 acres; the complex is 19% contained, with 1,130 personnel assigned. The Cedar fire has remained under an inversion which continues to moderate the fire, but predicted instability and stronger winds could increase fire behavior. The Prescott fire continues to spread towards the Clear fire and deeper into the Siskiyou Wilderness. Late afternoon west winds may begin to clear the air.

Residents should be aware that they may see fire engines and crews in their neighborhoods. They are working to identify structure location and what it would take to protect them in case of wildfire. Their presence is a precautionary measure and will be a benefit for future safety planning needs. If the fire is approaching and could become a threat to your property, you will be contacted. Crews are also working on Titus Ridge to clear roads and reopen old firelines as a contingency line on the east side of the Klamath river.

Traffic Conditions: Highway 96 has traffic controls from about 2.5 miles west/south of Happy Camp to just south of the Clear Creek Ranch. There may be one way controlled traffic behind a pilot car or even temporary closures of the highway, depending on fire activity. This closure will be in place for as long as it takes the Oak Fire to back down to the highway.

Fire Prevention & Making a Plan: Families should take the time to develop a plan of action if the need to leave quickly arises. Decide where you will go, what you might take with you, and communicate this with each other. Talk with your neighbors and find out how you can help each other. More specific measures to protect your home can be found at http://www.readyforwildfire.org/Pre-Evacuation-Preparation/.

August 22, 2017 at 10:07 AM

Active fire was observed on the complex. The Oak fie required strategic firing on the east flank to strengthen containment lines. A heavy commitment of resources has been devoted to structure protection.

Planned Actions:

Oak: Continued road prep and handline construction for indirect containment firelines and scouting/ or implementing strategic firing operations as the fire moves east. Continue implementation of secondary suppression indirect containment line on the east side while solidifying contingency alternatives. Strengthen control lines on the east flank.

Cedar: Continue indirect handline and dozer line construction on the west and south sides of the proposed fire perimeter. Continue prepping the 19N01 road for potential strategic firing operations. Continued strategic firing to strengthen containment lines on the east flank. Continue initial attack operations on any fire starts in the fire complex area where safe to do so.

Prescott: Continued aerial reconnaissance and identifying containment and confinement lines.

August 21, 2017 at 8:23 PM

Evacuation Warnings have been issued to residents located southwest of Happy Camp, on the southwest side of the Happy Camp airport and in the Clear Creek area. Notifications are being made as appropriate, based on current fire conditions, for people in these areas to be prepared to evacuate, should it be necessary. Forest Supervisor Patty Grantham said: “While our plan is a good one, and we don’t think the fire will reach town, it is always much better to have folks prepared for leaving just in case”. The Oak Fire spotted outside of containment lines on the southeast corner due to winds on Saturday evening. Firefighters are engaged in containing the fire on an alternate line further to the east that will tie into Highway 96, keeping the fire outside of Happy Camp.

An Evacuation Warning means that you should be prepared to evacuate. Law enforcement and incident personnel will attempt to make personal visits to each residence and business in the areas of concern. Residents are responsible to make arrangements to move personal property and livestock. Residents need to make sure they have all of their valuables ready, along with medications and other critical belongings in case they have to be evacuated in the future. Some residents, primarily those with special health needs or other concerns, should relocate during this stage of evacuation.

Should it be required, the next stage would be an Evacuation Order. This means that evacuation is necessary in order to protect the lives of area occupants and emergency personnel responding to the incident. Law enforcement and incident personnel will attempt to convey this information to citizens door to door in person and also through telephone notifications.

Siskiyou County has instituted a rapid emergency notification service called CodeRED® which would be implemented if there was an Evacuation Order. CodeRED® employs an internet mapping capability for geographic targeting of calls, coupled with a high speed telephone calling system capable of delivering customized emergency messages directly to homes and businesses at a rate of 1,000 calls per minute. For more information, or to register for CodeRED go to: http://www.co.siskiyou.ca.us/content/emergency-information.

Information to help you prepare for a possible evacuation can be found at: http://www.readyforwildfire.org/Pre-Evacuation-Preparation/.

It is likely that traffic on Highway 96 west (south) of Happy Camp will be affected by fire suppression activities in the near future. Traffic controls will likely be implemented, in coordination with the California Highway Patrol and California Department of Transportation. Temporary road closures could be required.

A public meeting will be held in Happy Camp on Tuesday, August 22, 2017 at 6:00pm at the Grange Hall to provide updated information about the fires in the Eclipse Complex.

There will also be a public meeting in Seiad on Wednesday August 23, 2017 at 6:00pm at a location to be announced.

August 21, 2017 at 7:30 AM

The Eclipse Complex is now 35,040 acres with 19% containment. Monday expect heavy smoke keeping temperatures mild and humidity slightly elevated. Staying indoors to avoid the smoke, and reducing physical activity, are the best ways to protect your lungs from wildfire smoke. Because of the smokey conditions and fire equipment on the roadways, drivers are encouraged to drive carefully. Remember that Fire Prevention starts at your home, are you and your family prepared?”

August 18, 2017 at 11:31 AM

The Eclipse Complex (CA-KNF-6098) has burned a total of 17,501 acres, is 15% contained, with 837 personnel working on the fires. Yesterday, the Prescott and Oak Fires continued to burn aggressively due to hotter, dryer and windier conditions. The Prescott Fire continues to move to the east towards the Clear Fire, but remains within the Siskiyou Wilderness. It is about 7,850 acres in size, and 0% contained. There are no official closures, but hikers should be aware of a fire advisory for the Siskiyou Wilderness. These fires are uncontrolled which poses an inherent risk as they have the potential in this area to expand and move across the landscape, sometimes very rapidly.

The Oak Fire primarily grew to the west, away from the town of Happy Camp, burning over Baldy Mountain Ridge and into Five Mile Creek. The Oak fire is about 2,260 acres and 0% contained. An Emergency Closure Order will be issued soon for all or portions of eleven roads located between Happy Camp, Baldy Mountain Lookout, and Wingate Bar in the vicinity of the Oak Fire. Crews will work today to continue to hold existing containment lines.

The Cedar Fire, located about eight miles northwest of Seiad Valley, is approximately 618 acres and 0% contained. It is spreading slowly to the south. Klamath National Forest Emergency Closure Order No. 14-05-798 and Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest Emergency Closure No. 06-10-22-17-14 closes 30 roads on the Klamath National Forest; three roads on the Siskiyou National Forest; and 15 trails, including the Boundary Trail west of the junction with the Pacific Crest Trail.

The Clear Fire, located about seven miles southwest of Happy Camp, remains at 6,700 acres with 79% containment. Resources continue to work to mop up areas along containment lines. Road and trail closures have been in effect since August 1 (Emergency Closure Order No. 17-05-796) including the Bear Peak and Clear Creek Roads, the Bear Creek/Kelsey National Recreation Trail, West Fork Trail and a portion of the Clear Creek Trail; and No Mans Trailhead and Campground and Elbow Springs Trailhead.

Two additional, small lightening fires have been added to the complex, the Four Mile and the East, totaling 73 acres with 0% containment.

Additional information about road and trail closures and about the fires is available on the U.S. Forest Service – Klamath National Forest website and Facebook page, on Inciweb, and at key locations in Happy Camp and Seiad Valley. Information can also be obtained from the Fire Information Office in Happy Camp at (530) 493-1520 or from the Happy Camp/Oak Knoll Ranger District at (530) 493-2243.

To provide for public safety, Emergency Closure Orders have been executed for roads and trails near many of the wildfires, closing them to public entry. Wildfires can be unpredictable and dangerous. If you are planning to visit the Happy Camp/Oak Knoll Ranger District for recreation, hunting or other activities, be alert for road, trail and area closures and check with the Ranger District at (530) 493-2243 before you arrive.

August 18, 2017 at 6:45 AM

The Eclipse Complex (CA-KNF-6098) has now burned 17,415 acres with 15% containment. The Oak fire is approximately 2,241 acres with 0% containment and primarily growing to the west. The Prescott fire continues to burn aggressively in the Siskiyou Wilderness, while the Clear fire remains at 79% containment. The Cedar fire is now 618 acres and 0% contained and continues to spread slowly to the South. To provide for public safety, emergency closure orders have been executed for roads and trails near many of the wildfires, closing them to public entry.

August 17, 2017 at 6:41 AM

The Oak, Clear, Cedar and Prescott wildfires are now called the Eclipse Complex and are being managed by Northern California Team 1, under the leadership of Incident Commander Curtis Coots. Managing these lightning caused fires as a unified complex will make it easier to share resources, equipment and expertise between the fires. The complex has burned a total of 11,029 acres and is 15% contained. 765 personnel are working on the fires.

Planned Actions

Oak: A night shift is planned for this evening where crews will continue strategic firing operations if necessary. secure fire perimeter, and patrol containment lines. Tomorrows dayshift will consist of continued road prep and handline construction for indirect containment firelines.

Cedar: Continue indirect handline and dozer line construction on the east and south sides of the proposed fire perimeter (Division B and W). Continue prepping the 19N01 road for potential strategic firing operations. Continue initial attack operations on any new fire starts in the fire complex area where safe to do so.

Prescott: Continued aerial reconnaissance and identifying containment and confinement lines.

Clear: Resources will continue to mop up and patrol. They will continue to monitor the fire south of Elbow Springs in Swillup Creek drainage. Due to numerous snags in and around this area. Indirect tactics have been employed. Continue with suppression repair operations.

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