Early Morning Lightning Storm Sparks Multiple Fires in Douglas County

Douglas County, OR (September 5, 2025) – The Douglas Forest Protective Association (DFPA) is actively responding to several fires after an early morning lightning storm swept across the region. Officials confirmed that 48 lightning strikes were recorded across DFPA-protected lands during the event.

So far, crews have investigated four reports of smoke, with two confirmed fires: the Fate Creek Fire and the Deadman Fire.

Fate Creek Fire - Myrtle Creek

• Status: Initial attack in progress
• Size: Estimated 1.5 acres
• Location: ~1 mile south of the 12000 block of South Myrtle Road
• Resources Assigned:
  • 2 Type 3 engines
  • 2 Type 6 engines
  • 1 water tender
  • 1 bulldozer
  • Air Attack
  • Type 2 helicopter
  • 1 set of fallers
  • Additional DFPA ground resources en route

Details:
Smoke from the fire was first confirmed through DFPA’s camera detection system. Both ground and aerial firefighting resources quickly launched an aggressive initial attack. The forward progress of the fire has since been knocked down, with crews establishing a hose lay around the perimeter. Helicopter support has been released from the incident. Fallers have arrived to assist containment efforts. At this time, there is no threat to structures or homes.

Deadman Fire – Myrtle Creek

• Status: Initial attack in progress
• Size: Single tree strike
• Location: 19 miles east of Myrtle Creek, near Deadman Creek Road
• Resources Assigned: 1 Type 6 engine

Details:
During aerial reconnaissance, DFPA crews identified smoke rising from a tree struck by lightning. The fire is located at the boundary of DFPA lands, the Umpqua National Forest’s Tiller Ranger District, and the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians’ land. Fire management teams from all three jurisdictions are working jointly on the response. No structures or homes are currently threatened.

Outlook

DFPA reports that crews will continue monitoring for additional holdover lightning fires, as new starts can emerge days after storms. The agency urges the public to remain vigilant and report any signs of smoke.