ODF Crews Made Excellent Progress on 3 Lightning Fires in Josephine County
The Oregon Department of Forestry made excellent progress overnight on three fires in Josephine County that were ignited by lightning late yesterday.
ODF reports its resources were able to completely line and mop-up the Reeves Creek Fire northeast of Kerby by 11 p.m. Thursday, holding it to just under 1/4-acre.
The Galice Road Fire located near Ennis Riffle County Park was 100% lined this morning. Firefighters worked through the night and -- despite limited access, tough terrain and limited water -- were able to mop up 60% of the fire. Additional crews were hiking in and aircraft will be used to deliver water to the 1/3-acre blaze.
The Chapman Creek Fire located southeast of Cave Junction was also completely lined and 75% mopped up this morning at two acres. Two additional engines and one hand crew were ordered for today. Aircraft will be available if needed.
A total of 26 lightning strikes were recorded across ODF-protected lands in Josephine and Jackson counties on Thursday. All fires will be investigated to confirm lightning as the cause.
Reconnaissance flights over strike areas will continue today and the days to follow while ODF Detection Center staff will continue to scan southwest Oregon for fire or smoke. Lightning-caused fires can smolder for days before showing any signs.
Slight chances of thunderstorms remain the forecast through the weekend and ODF will be ready for any new reports of fire. Lightning-caused fires can't be prevented, but human-caused fires can. Please follow all local fire season restrictions.
Posted on 8/1/25 11:54AM by Sam Marsh
