Aug. 18, 2011 – 10:55 p.m.Report
A string of small grass and brush fires along Interstate 5 near the city of Rogue River started two wildfires that threatened approximately 40 homes. One of the fires burned more than 400 acres east of the city, and the second fire burned 2.5 acres west of the city. The 400-acre fire crossed North River Road, where most of the homes are located, and burned up the south side of Tin Pan Peak. The 2.5-acre fire burned next to Foothill Blvd.
The fires were reported at 4:20 p.m. today.
Structural fire engines from many fire departments in Jackson and Josephine counties responded to the fire, along with engines, bulldozers, helicopters and airtankers from the Oregon Department of Forestry’s Medford and Grants Pass units.
More than 200 firefighters are working tonight to complete a fireline around the blaze, and to protect homes and other structures. A few outbuildings are known to have burned, but no injuries have been reported.
Residents in the fire area along North River Road were advised to evacuate. An evacuation center is located at Rogue River Elementary School. North River Road remains closed in the fire area. Call (541) 776-7338 for information about the evacuation center and road closures.
Brian Ballou, ODF public information officer
Don Hickman, Jackson County Fire District #3 information officer