August 1, 2026 10:40 a.m. 

The Castle Fire burning on the Umpqua National Forest is at 2,295 acres and 8 percent contained as of Saturday morning. It is located 23 miles northeast of Tiller.

An update from California Incident Management Team 3 said the past 24 hours showed increased fire behavior, with some spotting and torching, which firefighters are actively addressing with direct and indirect containment strategies. Firing operations were effectively executed on the northern perimeter of the fire. Helicopters completed bucket drops to knock down fire intensity as it approaches primary control lines and to knock down spot fires over the primary control line.

The Douglas Forest Protective Association is supplying two helicopters to assist with air operations. Firefighters are preparing and maintaining defensible contingency lines via brushing operations. Patrol and mop up continue on the 2823 Road. The fire is being managed for full suppression.

The update said the weather was hotter and drier on Friday, with an overnight marine layer leading to cooler temperatures and higher humidity on Saturday. Humidity is expected to decrease on Sunday.

The Umpqua National Forest has expanded the closure area in order to protect the public and provide a safe environment for firefighters. All National Forest System lands, roads and trails are closed to the public within the closure area. The closure will remain in effect until conditions allow for safe reopening.

For more information, go to the Umpqua National Forest website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/umpqua