September 6, 2022 11:00 a.m. 

With critical fire weather conditions happening, the Rum Creek Fire, in Josephine County, is being tested again.

An update from Northwest Incident Management Team 13 said the conditions may cause the fire to flare up and promote the rapid spread of fire.

Crews completed the last of the planned tactical firing operations Sunday night, tying the west line from Mount Peavine to the Rogue River. Unburned islands in the Rum Creek and Montgomery Creek drainages continue to burn actively. Members of the Crane Valley Hotshots are working and camping near this remote area to monitor the fire and suppress flare-ups or spot fires as needed.

Firefighters continue to mop up residual heat near all fire lines. Water drops from aircraft are cooling flareups and hot areas near the fire’s edges, especially in areas not accessible by engines and far from streams. At times, air operations have been restricted by limited visibility due to smoke.

Office of the State Fire Marshal resources continue to mop up remaining hot spots near structures, cut hazard trees and patrol areas along Galice Road.

More information on the Rum Creek Fire is at: https://www.facebook.com/rumcreekfire2022