Upper Applegate fire prompts evacuation warnings south of Jacksonville

The fire was estimated at 120 acres Thursday evening, with multiple fire crews and resources engaging the fire “in an aggressive initial attack,” according to the Oregon Department of Forestry.

A Level 1 evacuation warning – meaning be prepared to leave – has been issued for an area south of the small town of Ruch and north of McKee Bridge, a popular recreational area. The evacuation order includes: Eastside Road, south of Little Applegate Road, to north of McKee Bridge.

The fire appears to be burning north of Applegate Reservoir.

“Additional resources will arrive overnight,” ODF said in a press release. “Cooler temperatures this evening will naturally decrease fire activity and help firefighters make further progress.”