EAGLE POINT, Ore. – Firefighters working on the Salt Creek Fire are continuing to be challenged by hot temperatures in the triple digits and afternoon winds. This heat poses a hazard in combination with the hard manual labor required to build line, and hydration has been key for all personnel.
Heat also contributed to fire activity throughout day and caused minimal growth on small portions of the fire on the southwest, southeast and northeastern edges. Firefighters reacted quickly and were able to engage in these areas with aircraft and resources on the ground. The fire is still estimated to be around 3,300 acres, however another infrared (IR) flight is scheduled for this evening and any new growth will be recorded and reported tomorrow morning.
Tonight, 11 20-person crews, 23 engines, 11 bulldozers, 12 water tenders and various overhead are assigned to the fire, totaling more than 300 personnel working overnight. Resources will continue to build on current line on the northeast and south portions of the fire and mop up areas on the west side. Additionally, structural engines from Lake Creek Fire Department and Jackson County Fire District 3 are providing structure protection to homes nearby.
A new Level 1, “BE READY,” Evacuation notice was issued by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Emergency Management for zone JAC-325-A. Learn more about evacuations at: https://protect.genasys.com/
Salt Creek Road and Wasson Canyon Road remained closed at Highway 140, and Double Day Road is closed off of Butte Falls Highway. Highway 140 and Butte Falls Highway remain open.
Follow all current fire restrictions to prevent fires. Learn more at:
• The ODF Southwest Oregon District: https://swofire.com/
• The RRSNF Alerts and Notices page www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/rogue-siskiyou/alerts-notices and website homepage www.fs.usda.gov/rogue-siskiyou
• The BLM OR/WA Fire Management Page: www.blm.gov/orwafire
The Salt Creek Fire is located 10 miles east of Eagle Point and was first reported Sunday, July 7, just after 4 p.m. The cause is under investigation.