ODF Responds to Wildfire Near Highway 140 After Evening Thunderstorms

Near Eagle Point, Oregon– The Oregon Department of Forestry is responding to a wildfire reported Wednesday evening near Highway 140 and South Obenchain Road as thunderstorms move through southern Oregon.

As of 7:45 p.m., the fire was estimated at half an acre with a moderate rate of spread. Ground crews launched an aggressive initial attack, and a Type 3 helicopter along with a helitack crew is en route to assist. Firefighters are also responding to two additional smoke reports in the area.

Earlier in the day, thunderstorms began pushing north into the region, bringing a limited number of lightning strikes to southeastern Jackson County. No fires had been located on the district at that time, but crews continued monitoring conditions and storm progression.

ODF remains on alert for additional fire starts throughout the night and into Thursday.

No evacuation notices have been issued as of 8:30P.

Medford Alert is working to gather additional information and will provide updates when available.