August 28, 2021 9:00 a.m. 

The Devil’s Knob Complex, burning on the Tiller Ranger District of the Umpqua National Forest, has grown by approximately 1,100 acres and is now listed at 31,224 acres.

An update from the Florida Red Incident Management Team said on the Smith Fire, crews are continuing to expand control lines on all sides with air resources providing support where feasible and as weather allows. In Ash Valley, two engine task forces from Douglas and Linn counties through the Office of Oregon State Fire Marshal and resources from the Douglas Forest Protective Association have timed out. However, a system of hose lays and sprinklers remain in place for structure protection. Along the fire’s northwest side, firefighters are improving holding lines and planning for strategic firing operations to further extend fire line.

Firefighters on the Big Hamlin Fire are working to build and scout fire lines as the fire shows relatively slow growth overall. Containment lines along the western perimeter are holding well. Crews continue strategic firing operations along the southeastern edge from Fawn Creek to Whiskey Creek as conditions allow.

The update said temperatures are anticipated to rise into the upper 80s, with hot and dry conditions contributing to the potential for increased fire activity. However, fire behavior might be moderated depending on the amount of smoke cover. Winds shifted to a light northeasterly flow on Friday but have not significantly impacted fire activity. They are expected to shift back to a northwesterly flow on Saturday.

The Devil’s Knob Complex remains 25 percent contained.