Firefighters are continuing to make access to a reported eight fires on both sides of the Lower Rogue River, northwest of Galice. Overnight, firefighters were able to reach two fires and begin an aggressive initial attack. The remaining six fires range from difficult to impossible to access by road or on foot, and aircraft will be the most beneficial tool we can use on these fires today and throughout the attack. Overall, none of the fires saw substantial growth overnight, however hot weather today is expected to increase fire activity.
Our district Type 3 helicopter that hosts our helitack crew is en route to the area, and additional helicopters from the Salt Creek Fire in Jackson County and air tankers will be used throughout the day. Four additional 20-person crews from the Salt Creek Fire are also being reassigned to these incidents this morning.
The area these fires are burning is in and around numerous fire scars, including the Rum Creek Fire from 2022 and the Big Windy Fire from more than a decade ago. In some areas, this may help firefighters get an upper hand, and in others, it may provide additional challenges. All of the ground is steep with hazardous falling trees and rocks with little to no road access points. A Rapid Extrication Module (REM) unit and additional medical staff is also being relocated from the Salt Creek Fire to this general area, as firefighter safety is a concern on all of these incidents.
At this time, there are no road or campground closures, however, please be aware of firefighters working in the area. Fire engines and equipment may have a heavier presence on roads out in these areas.
