I had been reading on various boards for 2 weeks or so that 2 main characters die within the first 10 minutes. And Kiefer said it in the Charlie Rose interview. So when she went out the door, I knew who was next.
And it doesn't make sense that she'd be alive. Tony was in one blast and is at deaths door and she was in 2. I think she's gone. And I think it's because this is Jacks last season. I believe characters are being "cleared out". Kiefer talked about ways the show could continue after Jack leaves. I believe his days are numbered. (not neccesarily dead)
good points.
Kiefer will be back for at least one more season. He has already stated that when the show ends, Jack will die (I assume saving the world once again) since he doesn't want anyone else playing the part. (Remember that he is also one of the producers of the show.) Since 24 is signed up for this season and next, we can infer that KS will be back next season as well.