August 30, 2021 10:30 a.m.

The Devil’s Knob Complex has grown by 2,000 acres, and is now listed at 34,382 acres, as it burns on the Tiller Ranger District of the Umpqua National Forest.

An update from the Florida Red Incident Management Team said most growth within the complex has been concentrated along the north and east sides of the Smith Fire, although smoky conditions have somewhat limited fire behavior in recent days. If the smoke clears, fire activity is anticipated to be moderate, but new smoke columns may appear.

The update said the Smith Fire showed moderate activity on Sunday along much of the east side from Coffeepot Creek to Dumont Creek. That area is inaccessible and too hazardous for firefighters, according to fire officials. Efforts are underway to improve area roads ahead of the fire to act as fire breaks. Several columns were visible as fire activity increased when the lingering smoke moved out. Along the northwest perimeter, firefighters are preparing for strategic fire operations as additional Type 1 hand crews are in route. Helicopters are also providing support using water drops as weather allows.

On the Big Hamlin Fire, crews are working on additional lines in the northeast as the fire continues to show additional growth toward the 2925 Road. Along the southeastern edge, crews have focused on strategic firing operations, cleaning up previous burns and adding more depth to the fire line. Containment lines along the western perimeter continue to hold.

The Devil’s Knob Complex remains 25 percent contained. 749 people are now working on the fires.