Bottom Creek Fire

Photo Credit: Coos FPA

Sit Rep 1 | September 23, 2024, 2130 PT

Incident Summary

The BOTTOM CREEK FIRE was said to be the result of escaping established control lines on September 20, 2024, located about 24 miles seven miles east of Coos Bay (Douglas County), in the State of Oregon. The fire increased by one acre at 1700 hours PT, which was said to be at a 60% containment status and considered the last fire update by the Fire Agency.

Cause

The original cause is unknown and under investigation.

Current Status

According to local weather forecasters, the fire temps and smoke signature can be clearly seen on satellite imagery.

Incident Timeline

September 20, 2024

The fire is ignited by an unknown source. 5-7 acres in size. Firefighters are dispatched via the Coos FPA to the fireline located about 24 miles east of Coos Bay. They are being challenged by the topography and heavy fire fuels, but are making progress during the day. A night operation is ordered to continue fire suppression throughout the evening. By 1700 hours PT, the fire has increased by one acre and has a 60% line status.

September 21, 2024

The fire is being held by fire crews to eight (8) acres and has a 60% lined with multiple hose lays in place per an update released at 1100 hours PT. Fire Officials stated resources would remain on the scene for the next few days.

September 22, 2024

On this date at 0900 hours, the fire was said to have escaped its established control lines leading to a significant fire spread and forward progress resulting in an estimated 200-300 acres. This occurred from unexpected weather conditions, including strong winds and steep terrain. This had been a great challenge to crews from the get-go. This also led to very active fire behavior and continued fire spread. A plan was put into place which resources quickly egressed on the fire suppression, safely and effectively. Additional resources were ordered.

At 1900 hours, the fire was held at 300 acres while multiple air and ground resources were fully engaged and were due to remain overnight.

September 23, 2024

Fire Officials state there are both day and night operations and working 24/7 operational shifts. The size of the fire is still being held at 300 acres. It is unknown what the current containment status is as it was not released at the last presser given by the Fire Agency, however, they state the forward progression of the fire has been stopped.

Resources

The lead Fire Agency is the Coos Forest Protective Association (CFPA), along with other resources:

  • Coos FPA
  • Douglas Forest Protective Associate (DFPA)
  • Douglas County Government

Resources are working around the clock and include the following:

Day Shift:

  • (4) Type 6 Engines
  • (6) Water Tenders
  • (1) CFPA Handcrew
  • (7) Type 2 Handcrews
  • (1) Excavator
  • (2) Bulldozers
  • (2) Fallers
  • (1) REMS Team
  • Multiple Overhead personnel

Night Shift:

  • (5) Type 6 Engines
  • (5) Water Tenders
  • (4) Type 2 Handcrews
  • (1) Bulldozer
  • Multiple Overhead personnel

Social Media

#BottomCreekFire #ORwildfires2024

(c) 2024 NW Fire Blog