August 29, 2019 4:00 a.m.
The Gyda Fire, in southern Oregon’s Applegate Valley, is 40 percent contained.
The latest update from the Oregon Department of Forestry Southwest Oregon District and the Medford District of the Bureau of Land Management said accurate GPS mapping Wednesday has placed the fire at 54 acres. Dayshift crews continued forward progress on mop-up operations, reaching 50 feet into the fire’s interior.
Overnight resources assigned to the fire included 6 crews, 8 engines, 5 water tenders, and 1 bulldozer. Nearly 200 people are assigned to the fire. Tree fallers made progress on hazardous trees on the northeast corner, taking down approximately 75 snags on Wednesday.
Houses near the fire remain without evacuations, however travelers in the area should be aware of possible firetrucks and equipment in the area of Highway 238. The cause of the Gyda Fire remains under investigation.
A number of agencies are assisting the Oregon Department of Forestry with fire suppression efforts.