896 Acre Upper Applegate Fire Reaches 55% Containment

Applegate, Oregon- Firefighters continue to make steady progress on the Upper Applegate Fire, which remains at 896 acres this morning with 55% containment. Overnight efforts focused on bolstering fire lines and mopping up the southern portion of the fire.

Crews have successfully mopped up hotspots and vegetation holding heat up to 35 feet into the fire’s perimeter on the south side, reaching 10% completion. Today, the goal is to extend mop-up efforts to 75 feet along this line.

On the northeastern side, hazard trees and steep terrain pose significant challenges. On Tuesday, a firefighter sustained a leg injury while working on a steep slope. The firefighter was carried out by their crew and transported to a local hospital by Rogue Rescue. Safety remains a top priority as firefighters navigate these hazards.

Currently, over 400 personnel are assigned to the incident, including 14 20-person crews, eight engines, four bulldozers, eight water tenders, two chippers, 10 medical personnel, and numerous overhead staff. Aircraft assigned to the fire include two Type 1 and two Type 2 helicopters, along with an air attack plane for coordination. Additional airtankers and aircraft will be ordered as needed.

Evacuation orders remain in effect, issued by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Jackson County Emergency Management. Zone JAC-434 is on a Level 1 – Be Ready notice, while Zone JAC-436 is at Level 2 – Be Set. More information about zones and locations is available at: protect.genasys.com.

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has issued a closure order for BLM-managed lands in the fire area, including Grouse Creek Road. A map and additional information can be found at blm.gov/orwafire. Fire-related traffic may impact the Provolt area, so drivers are urged to be cautious on Highway 238.

The fire affects private, BLM, and U.S. Forest Service (USFS) land on the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest. It was first reported in the late afternoon of Thursday, June 20.

The fire danger level on the Oregon Department of Forestry’s Southwest Oregon District is moderate (blue), with regulations in place. Residents are encouraged to follow all current restrictions to help reduce the risk of fires in the community.