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Mountain Fire 5% contained, ODF sends help Updated: Sep 03, 2022 02:17 PM A A The Mountain Fire is burning in heavy timber about 8 miles east of Gazelle. [Cal Fire photo] The Mountain Fire burning in Siskiyou County, California, had burned 3,395 acres as of Saturday and was only 5% contained, according to Cal Fire. The fire was moving north after an active night, burning through timber along Gazelle-Callahan Road, according to Cal Fire Siskiyou Unit. The town of Gazelle was under evacuation orders Saturday. An evacuation center was set up at the Karuk Tribal Wellness Center, 1403 Kahtishraam, Yreka, according to Briana Haberman, public information officer for Siskiyou County. “We have also partnered with three nonprofits, Rescue Ranch in Yreka, Siskiyou SNIP, and Harts Rescue to help animals impacted by the fire,” Haberman said. The Oregon Department of Forestry will send two engines to help their fellow firefighters in Siskiyou County, said Natalie Weber, public information officer for the Oregon Department of Forestry Southwest District. “They’re so engaged in fast-moving fires so close to town,” Weber said. ODF often can’t spare two engines during the height of fire season. But with the need so great and the border so close, ODF made the decision to help, Weber said, with the understanding that if a new need arises in Oregon, the engines will have to go home. Haberman asked for patience from community members seeking information about when evacuation orders will be lifted. Firefighters are working hard, and will not lift orders until the area is safe for re-entry. She stressed those living around the fire should be aware of their surroundings and stay informed with incident information. The cause of the Mountain Fire is under investigation. Reach Mail Tribune reporter Morgan Rothborne at [email protected] or 541-776-4487. Follow her on Twitter @MRothborne.