RUCH, Ore. (June 26, 2024) – Today crews faced windy weather, which was moderated by overcast skies, higher humidity, and lower temperatures. The fire remained within the containment lines and continues to burn at a low to moderate severity. The fire was mapped at 896 acres. The acreage is expected to increase in the coming days as the fire continues to burn within the established lines.
Thanks to mop up efforts on the south side of the fire, containment has increased to 55%. Because of this, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office has lowered the evacuation level for Zone JAC-434 to Level 1 – Be Ready. Zone JAC-436 remains at Level 2 – Be Set. More information about zones and locations is available at: https://protect.genasys.com/.
Crews continue to focus on improving the indirect lines on the north and east end of the fire, preparing for upcoming back burning operations. While backburning operations were originally planned for tonight, a shift in the wind and higher relative humidity will instead allow crews to focus on addressing the immense amount of dead and down trees on the northeastern edge of the fire. Backburning will occur in the upcoming evenings when weather is favorable for low intensity burns.
The preliminary fire investigation of the Upper Applegate Fire has found the fire was caused by mowing dry grass. The Oregon Department of Forestry will continue to investigate the fire and may potentially try to recoup firefighting costs.
The current fire danger level in ODF’s Southwest Oregon District is Moderate (blue) which prohibits the mowing of dead or dried grass with power-driven equipment between 1:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. This restriction does not include mowing of green lawns, or equipment used for the commercial culture and harvest of agricultural crops. With equipment use being the second leading cause of human-caused fires in Oregon, many may find it surprising that a lawn mower falls within that category. It’s important to check local fire restrictions regularly during fire season to make sure you’re not potentially bringing a fire hazard onto the landscape. By taking this small step, Oregonians can help prevent the next large wildfire.
The BLM has issued a closure order for BLM-managed lands in the fire area, including Grouse Creek Road. A map and additional information is available at https://www.blm.gov/orwafire.
This fire is affecting 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 cause of this fire is currently under investigation.
485 personnel are assigned to this incident, including 21 20-person crews, six engines, five tree fallers, four bulldozers and numerous overhead. Four helicopters of various sizes are assigned to the fire. Additional helicopters and air tankers available when needed.
The fire danger level on the ODF Southwest Oregon District is moderate (blue) and regulations are in place. Please be aware of and follow all current restrictions to help reduce the risk of fires in our communities. Fire season information is also available online at our Facebook page: @ODFSouthwest and our website: www.swofire.com.