Regional fire news:
The Panther Gulch Fire burning in the Applegate Valley is completely lined.
That fire is estimated to be 70 acres according to the latest update from staff at the Oregon Department of Forestry Southwest Oregon District. The fire remains 15% contained with more than 100 people staffing it.
Wednesday night, 4 engines, 4 crews, 1 water tender and 1 bulldozer took over the work. Safety is the top priority with hazards that include snags, rolling logs, and steep terrain. Firefighters are tasked with laying hose throughout the fire, before beginning mop-up. When those operations begin, crews will begin by moving 25 feet from the perimeter, extinguishing hot spots as they work inward.
Investigators are still working to determine the cause of the fire.
Updates are available at www.swofire.com.