Crews successfully conducted a firing operation last night on the far southeastern corner of the Upper Applegate Fire. This backburn helped bring the wildfire to the fire line.
The Oregon Department of Forestry reports today's efforts on the 830-acre wildfire will be focused on snagging trees along the hand-line above Little Applegate Road. Mopping up of fire line continues, with direct and indirect lines around 100% of the fire. Steep slopes, hazard trees and rocks continue to challenge resources.
Temperatures in the 90s, with low relative humidity and increasing winds, may lead to increased interior fire behavior and smoke today. Fire managers anticipate that the fire will continue backing down the slopes toward containment lines.
More than 450 personnel are currently assigned to this incident including 19 20-person hand crews backed by six engines, four bulldozers and five tree-fallers. Four helicopters of various sizes are assigned to the fire again today, with additional helicopters and air tankers available when needed.
Level 2 "Be Set" evacuation notices remain in effect for Zones JAC-434 and JAC-436. These residents should be prepared to evacuate at a moment's notice.
A community meeting is scheduled for tonight at 7 at Ruch Elementary School, 156 Upper Applegate Road. Incident commanders and agency partners will provide an update on the wildfire and answer questions from the community.
