The Moon Complex fire continues to threaten communities along the Rogue River corridor as firefighters battle fast-moving flames. Significant growth was reported Friday, and evacuation orders and closures remain in place across parts of Southwest Oregon. Crews are working to protect homes, businesses and recreation areas as changing weather and heavy smoke complicate operations.
Evacuations:
- A Level 3 “Go Now” evacuation order is in effect from Tacoma Rapids (River Mile 29) to the Oak Flat area, including Agness.
- A Level 2 “Set” evacuation order is in effect southwest from Spud Road and the Rogue River, bordered on the northwest by Forest System Road 33 (Agness Road) and ending at Forest System Road 3318.
Closures:
The Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest has expanded its closure area to protect the public and ensure firefighter safety. Closed areas include Bear Camp Road, Eden Valley Road, Forest System Road 2308, and Forest System Road 33 from Agness to Powers. All lands, roads, trails and recreation access along this stretch of the Rogue River are closed.
Firefighting efforts:
The Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Green Team, led by Incident Commander Lance Lighty, mobilized quickly to protect threatened communities. Two task forces arrived Saturday in the Illahe and Agness areas, focusing on structural protection as fire activity increased.
Later Saturday, Gov. Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act in response to the fast-moving fire and the threat to homes. Four additional OSFM task forces were deployed to strengthen protection efforts.
Current status (Saturday):
- Crews built dozer and hand lines around a spot fire along the 3730 Road near Illahe Lodge. One outbuilding was lost at Clay Hill, but all lodges along the river corridor remain intact.
- Defensive firing took place throughout the day. Firefighters held Panther Ridge and worked to contain two spot fires near the headwaters of Sru Creek.
- On the east side, crews prepared the 2308 Road and scouted options to connect to indirect dozer lines. They also directly engaged slopovers along FSR 23.
- The fire is being closely monitored as it backs into Shasta Costa Creek.
- Heavy smoke moderated fire behavior but prevented aircraft from supporting ground crews.
Weather:
A cold front moving in today could bring gusty southwest winds, pushing the fire upriver and eastward. Wetting rains are forecast from tonight through Wednesday.
Smoke and air quality:
Air quality remains hazardous to unhealthy in much of southern Oregon. Residents are urged to stay indoors as much as possible.
Recreation closures:
- River-based recreation is closed on the Rogue River from Grave Creek to below Agness. No river permits are being issued.
- The Rainie Falls Trail and the Rogue River Trail from Grave Creek to Marial remain open.