Upper Applegate Fire Remains at Approximately 500 Acres Tonight

Applegate, Oregon- Firefighters are maintaining control over the Upper Applegate Fire, which remains at approximately 500 acres despite challenging hot, dry, and windy conditions on Saturday. Crews have constructed indirect lines along the northeastern portion of the fire, creating a contingency layer in a particularly difficult area. Currently, the fire is bordered by 70% indirect lines and 20% direct lines.

During the afternoon, gusty winds pushed the fire over a line on the southeastern side. Firefighters, utilizing retardant from multiple air tanker drops and repositioning a crew, were able to contain the breach to an estimated five acres. The affected area has been re-lined, and efforts are ongoing to strengthen these lines.

In response to the conditions, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Jackson County Emergency Management have increased evacuation notices. Zones JAC-434 and JAC-436 are now under Level 2 – BE SET evacuation orders. Detailed information about evacuation zones and locations can be found here.

Tonight, more than 170 personnel are assigned to the fire, including five 20-person crews, three engines, three bulldozers, and three water tenders. Aircraft will continue operations until dark. Firefighters aim to build on the progress made during the previous shift and to fortify existing lines. The fire is impacting private, Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and U.S. Forest Service (USFS) land within the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest.

The Upper Applegate Fire was first reported on the afternoon of Thursday, June 20. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. The fire danger level on the Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Southwest Oregon District is moderate, with regulations in place to mitigate fire risks. Residents are urged to adhere to all current restrictions to help reduce the risk of fires in the community.