June 20, 2025 11:10 a.m.  

Firefighters working on the Upper Applegate Fire in Jackson County on Thursday night and early Friday had a successful shift strengthening lines and making progress on the mop-up operations, reaching the 10 percent mark.

An update from the Oregon Department of Forestry Southwest Oregon District said resources were also able to connect hose throughout the rest of the incident, allowing for water across the entire fire. Public Information Officer Natalie Weber said this will greatly aid firefighters who are continuing to push forward on mopping up the fire. Weber said the fire remains estimated to be 470 acres.

A chance of rain and thunderstorms is in the forecast for Friday, with the wind expected to persist and even increase across the incident. Weber said firefighters are prepared for the added challenge and are ready to respond to any new fire starts, whether lightning or human caused.

Friday, Upper Applegate Fire resources are also focusing on mop up, extinguishing hot spots to create depth on the line and further progress across the incident. Tree fallers are working again on the north portion of the incident where 5 percent of the fire remains unlined.

Get more details on the Upper Applegate Fire on the ODF Southwest Oregon District’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ODFSouthwest