July 18, 2023 1:30 p.m.

The Flat Fire is now over 8,200 acres, burning two miles east of Agness in Curry County.

A Forest Service Update said the fire is burning in historic burn scars from the Biscuit and Klondike fires. Firefighters are working around standing dead trees and thick vegetation within these burn scars. Night crews were able to take advantage of more favorable conditions Monday night into Tuesday. The fire is expected to remain active, creating heavy smoke in nearby communities.

More resources have arrived and will do so over the next several days. Three hundred seventy-eight firefighters are now assigned to the fire. That includes sixteen engines, thirteen crews, two bulldozers, two water tenders, and seven helicopters.

Firefighters are continuing to strengthen and create new fire lines. Firefighters are gaining reconnaissance looking for opportunities to use existing barriers to safely engage the fire. Fire managers will be using aviation resources as conditions and visibility allow.

A closure order for the fire area remains in place. That includes trails, roads and a portion of the Illinois River. An Air Quality Alert is in place for parts of Curry and Josephine counties through 11:00 p.m. Wednesday, due to the fire. Air quality is expected to reach unhealthy levels at times.

Get updates on the fire at: https://www.facebook.com/flatfireoregon2023