Local News

Firefighters worked all day Sunday on four new lightning-sparked fires across the Oregon Department of Forestry's Southwest District. As of 6 p.m. yesterday, all fires were 100% lined and in various stages of mop-up.

ODF reports the Sugarpine Gulch Fire located northwest of Rogue River was the most challenging incident and the last one to be fully-lined due to steep terrain and windy conditions. It was caught at just over seven acres. Numerous aircraft worked on the fire all day including one Type 3, two Type 2 and two Type 1 helicopters. Engines, a bulldozer, hand crews and tree fallers remained engaged on the ground and continued to strengthen the line overnight while pushing forward with mop-up.

The Eastside Road Fire located along Upper Applegate Road and west of Buncom was holding at an estimated two acres. It was 100% lined and 20% mopped up last night. Operations were ongoing on the blaze overnight.

The Canyon Creek Fire located west of Highway 227 and northwest of Trail was caught at just over six acres. It was 30% mopped up and operations continued overnight.

The Old Baldy Fire located in the hills between Grants Pass and Wimer was caught at 1.5 acres. It was 30% mopped up and operations were ongoing.

The Sexton Fire reported on the east side of Interstate 5 between Hugo and Sunny Valley was not found by firefighters after a thorough search.

A second reconnaissance flight was conducted Sunday and no new fires were found. ODF detection camera operators will continue to search lightning strike areas for any smoke or fires. Crews remain ready to respond to any new fire starts across the district.