July 31, 2019 9:45 a.m.
Checking the regional fire scene:
Firefighters were able to make great progress overnight on the Panther Gulch Fire in the Applegate Valley.
An update from the Southwest Oregon District of the Oregon Department of Forestry said the fire was estimated to be 50 acres as of mid-morning on Wednesday. GPS mapping is expected to provide a better picture of the actual size of the fire. The update said the primary goal now is to hold the lines that were built overnight and continue forward progress toward further containment with a focus on firefighter safety.
The update said crews were first alerted to the Panther Gulch Fire just before 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday. It was initially reported to be a grassfire with a large plume of smoke, above Panther Gulch Road. ODF crews, along with rural agencies responded, however aircraft were the first to reach the scene. 4 helicopters, 5 air tankers, and air attack plane and more were engaged until the sun set.
Air crews initially reported the fire to be 7 acres. When firefighters arrived, it was determined to be closer to 25 acres. 4 dozers and 4 20-person hand crews also engaged in the effort and worked through the evening. Steep terrain and snags in the area created an added challenge. The potential for rolling logs has posed a risk as well.
Wednesday’s attack has 4 helicopters, 1 fixed wing aircraft, 1 air attack plane, and 5 air tankers. 4 crews, 6 engines, 2 water tenders, and 2 tenders have taken over the line. Weather conditions appear to be favorable to firefighters.
No evacuations or closures are in place at this time. The cause of the Panther Gulch Fire remains under investigation. For updates go to www.swofire.com.