Fire crews battle over 400-acre wildland fire near Applegate Road

As the sun dipped low behind the hills, casting a warm glow over Medford, the city council meeting took a serious turn when the topic of a rapidly spreading wildfire came to the forefront. Council members and residents alike listened intently as the fire chief reported on a significant blaze that had erupted in the Applegate area, now consuming over 400 acres.

The fire, which ignited around lunchtime on Upper Applegate Road, quickly escalated, prompting a robust response from local fire departments. The chief detailed the deployment of three wildland fire engines and a task force leader, alongside five different task forces from across the Rogue Valley, totaling about 70 firefighting units. The community's safety was bolstered by the presence of air support, including a large air tanker and multiple helicopters, all working tirelessly to combat the flames.

Despite these efforts, the fire continued to grow, having peaked on the ridge and now moving down the slope. The chief assured the council that night crews from Marion County were on their way to provide additional assistance, with hopes that by morning, the fire would be contained. However, as of the meeting, the situation remained critical, with no containment lines established yet.

The urgency of the fire response underscored the challenges faced by the community, reminding everyone of the unpredictable nature of wildfires and the importance of preparedness. As the council discussed the ongoing situation, it became clear that the resilience of Medford's emergency services would be tested in the coming hours. The meeting concluded with a collective hope for safety and swift action as the community rallied behind its firefighters.