Wildfire response teams from Lane and Marion counties have been dispatched to combat the burgeoning Upper Applegate Fire in Jackson County, as Oregon contends with yet another blaze in an increasingly persistent wildfire season. The Oregon State Fire Marshal, leveraging the Immediate Response protocol, has not waited for the Emergency Conflagration Act to kick in before sending assistance to the fire reported on Wednesday off Upper Applegate Road, just south of Ruch. According to official statements, the fire had reached 120 acres by 2:30 PM yesterday and spread actively.
Firefighting resources, including those from the Applegate Fire District, accompanying Rogue Valley agencies, the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and the Oregon Department of Forestry, are already on scene and fighting to halt the fire's advance. State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple emphasized the situation's urgency, saying, per the Oregon State Fire Marshal, "This is our third mobilization this month, a clear signal that wildfire season is here." She underlined the importance for Oregonians to "be wildfire aware," especially considering the recent devastating impacts of fires in the Gorge and Jefferson County, in a statement obtained by the Oregon newsroom.
The task forces from Lane and Marion, now on the move, have been brought on board to protect structures that the Upper Applegate Fire may threaten adequately. Air support, too, has been summoned, with several helicopters and two large air tankers ordered to assist ground crews in their battle against the flames.
Jackson County Sheriff's Office has moved quickly, issuing evacuation notices of various levels to those near the fire. Detailed evacuation information can be found on local emergency services websites. Meanwhile, the State Fire Marshal has urged the public to adhere strictly to local restrictions to support their firefighting efforts. The Immediate Response action aims to rapidly surge resources to prevent costly wildfires from inflicting further damage on the community, as noted by the Oregon Department of Forestry.
