Additional Resources Ordered for Upper Applegate and Highway 62 Fires

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Jackson County, Oregon– 6:35pm. The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Southwest Oregon District reported that the Upper Applegate Fire has expanded to an estimated 60 acres. Meanwhile, the Highway 62 Fire in Shady Cove remains stable at approximately 30 acres. Both fires have necessitated ongoing Level 1 evacuations as a precautionary measure for nearby residents.

ODF officials have mobilized significant aerial resources to combat these wildfires. The response includes multiple aircraft, notably two Type 2 helicopters, a Type 1 helicopter, an air attack plane, and a Large Air Tanker. These assets are critical in the effort to contain the fires and prevent further spread.

“Multiple aircraft have been ordered for both of these incidents,” an ODF spokesperson stated. The strategic deployment aims to control the fires more effectively and ensure the safety of the communities in the affected areas.

Residents in the vicinity are advised to stay alert and prepared for potential changes in evacuation status. Level 1 evacuations indicate that individuals should be ready to evacuate at a moment’s notice if conditions worsen. Here is a tool to know your evacuation zone: LINK

Firefighters on the ground and in the air continue to work tirelessly to manage these fires. The combination of aerial and ground efforts is essential to mitigating the risks posed by the wildfires during the dry summer conditions in Southern Oregon.

These are developing wildfires, Medford Alert will continue to monitor and provide updates as the more information is gathered.

6:16pm Update: At this time, two air tankers are working the Upper Applegate Fire

The Upper Applegate Fire is now estimated to be at 100-120 acres. Forward progress on the Highway 62 Fire is stopped at an estimated 50-60 acres.

ODF provided the following updates 8:55p:

Firefighters are making good progress on the Highway 62 Fire. It’s been caught at 75 acres and is now 40% lined. Resources will continue to work on lining the fire and mopping up tonight.

The Upper Applegate Fire is estimated to be 120 acres at this time. Resources are continuing to engage in an aggressive initial attack. Additional resources will be arriving to work overnight. Cooler temperatures this evening will naturally decrease fire activity and help firefighters to make further progress.