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Containment increases to 42% on Rum Creek Fire
MERLIN, Ore. – Despite the heat and rugged terrain, firefighters on the Rum Creek Fire continue to make progress. Containment has increased to 42%, with most edges of the fire mopped up at least 75 feet inside fire lines. The tactical firing operation on the ridge between Rum Creek and Montgomery Creek went well, with fire backing down both sides of the ridge. Fire personnel continue to monitor this and other areas, watching for flare-ups and spot fires.

Overnight, the fire stayed within the containment lines despite high temperatures, low relative humidity and gusty winds. Today, temperatures will continue to be high, triggering a Heat Advisory from the National Weather Service (NWS). The heat can expose hidden hot spots and can take a toll on fire personnel. Heat-related illnesses such as dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke are a concern for firefighters.

Before a section of fire line can be described as “contained” crews complete many steps. They construct miles of fire lines, many on slopes too steep for dozers. They assemble hose lays around fires, carrying hoses, fittings, portable pumps, and fuel cans to where they are needed. When the timing is right, they conduct tactical burns, lighting fuels on the ground with drip torches to maintain a low-intensity burn. They watch for spot fires and jump on embers that cross the fire line and cause flare-ups. Lastly, they mop up residual heat by gridding along miles of fire edge, sometimes digging out burning roots several feet underground.

A few isolated storm cells are passing through the area today, bringing scattered lightning and minimal rain. The incident meteorologist will monitor for any cells that may impact the fire vicinity. Thunderstorms may bring gusty, erratic winds, but rain is unlikely to make it past the tree canopy. NWS has issued a Fire Weather Watch for Thursday afternoon and evening, for strong gusty winds and low relative humidity.

There was no infrared mapping flight yesterday to update the acreage.

Oregon Department of Forestry Team 1 and Northern Rockies Team 6 are in unified command of the Rum Creek Fire.

This morning, resources under the Office of Oregon State Fire Marshal demobilized from the Rum Creek Fire and returned local structural fire response to Rural Metro Fire. Firefighters increased containment, which has reduced risk to homes. Over 500 structure protection assessments were completed in the vicinity and OSFM thanks the community for their work to support these efforts and improve preparedness for the future.

Evacuations: Existing evacuation orders and notifications remain in place. An interactive map showing evacuation levels according to address can be found at //JosephineCounty.gov/FireMap. For the most current evacuation information and resources, go to Josephine County Incident Information (rvem.org).

Road control: Josephine County Sheriff’s Office has established traffic access points around the fire zone. Road blocks are located at Galice Road near Crow Road; Galice Store; Bear Camp Road at Peavine (top intersection); Lower Grave Creek Road at Angora Creek (Grays Ranch); Quartz Creek Road about 3 miles up (end of County maintenance); Dutch Henry Road near Kelsey Creek (42 44'56.2/123 40'35.4); and Hog Creek at Galice Road. The National Guard is staffing the roadblocks. Only residents (must show proof of residency) and permitted users will be allowed through.

River status: The Wild section of the Rogue River below Grave Creek will remain open unless fire conditions warrant closure. River status is determined on a day-to-day basis. Please call 541-471-6535 for more information regarding Rogue River permits. No new boating permits will be issued at this time.