Despite steep terrain, crews working on the East Evans Fire are continuing to make consistent progress on the line, increasing containment overnight to 38%. The fire, located on the 18000-block of East Evans Creek road, remains 155 acres with a strong perimeter.
Resources on the fire are increasing, with more than 250 personnel dedicated to this incident. Six tree fallers, 13 crews, 10 engines, 10 water tenders, and one bulldozer will be on the line today. One Type 2 and three Type 1 helicopters will also be available for air support, along with two air attack platforms.
The biggest challenge crews are currently facing is the steep terrain, particularly on the north side of the fire. Mop-up operations have been hindered due to the risks presented to firefighters in this area, and crews will be focused on progressing containment.
Safety remains a top priority on Tuesday, following a rollover accident of a Croman semi-truck Monday night at approximately 8:45 p.m. The semi, towing 5,000 gallons of Jet A fuel, was leaving the Beagle helibase in Shady Cove following its assignment on the fire when the accident occurred. The driver suffered minor injuries, was treated at a local hospital, and released. A HazMat response was requested. The cause of the crash is under investigation.
Nearly 30 residences in the area remain under a LEVEL 1 (BE READY) evacuation notice, ordered by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO). A roadblock remains in place at East Evans Creek road between May Creek road and Meadows road; only residents and emergency personnel are permitted through.
The investigation on the cause of the East Evans Fire is being handled by the Office of the Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) and Oregon State Police. It was initially reported as a structure fire at approximately 2 p.m. Friday, August 2.
ODF Southwest Oregon District is greatly appreciative of our partnership with the BLM on this fire, as well as the efforts made by our partner agencies, including the Rogue Valley Fire Chief’s Association, OSFM, Oregon State Police, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Jackson County Fire District Five, Mercy Flights, Jackson County Roads, and Jackson County Emergency Management.
Updates on the East Evans Fire can be found on our Facebook Page: @ODFSouthwest.