Firefighters Continue to work on Containing Milepost 124 Fire on Mount Nebo

A rapidly spreading vegetation fire broke out at approximately 6:30 p.m. on July 31, 2025, near Milepost 124 on Interstate 5 southbound, affecting the hillside of Mount Nebo in Roseburg. Multiple agencies quickly mobilized, including crews from the Roseburg Fire Department, Douglas Forest Protective Association (DFPA), Central Douglas Fire & Rescue, Roseburg Police Department, Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), and Pacific Power.

Upon arrival, responders faced difficult terrain and a wind-driven blaze fueled by dry vegetation and burning railroad ties. To ensure safety during firefighting operations, intermittent lane closures were put in place at exit 124 southbound, which have since reopened. Additionally, power was temporarily shut off overnight and was restored by 7:26 a.m. the following morning.

Firefighting efforts were briefly disrupted due to unauthorized drone activity over the fire area, which created a hazardous situation by temporarily grounding aerial firefighting operations. Despite these challenges, crews have successfully lined and plumbed approximately 50 acres by early morning on August 1, with mop-up operations about 40% complete. No homes or structures have been damaged, and the cause of the fire remains under active investigation.

Roseburg Fire Department dispatched eight firefighters, two chief officers, two Type 6 wildland fire engines, three Type 1 fire engines, and two command vehicles. Central Douglas Fire & Rescue supported the effort with additional incident command staff. DFPA contributed significantly, providing thirty-five firefighters, three Type 3 engines, six Type 6 engines, overhead personnel, a Type 2 helicopter, and air attack resources.

Incident command transitioned from the Roseburg Fire Department to DFPA at approximately 10:00 p.m. DFPA will continue containment and mop-up efforts over the next several days. Motorists are advised to exercise caution when traveling in the area, as firefighters will remain active and smoke may be visible while railroad ties continue to burn out.

Douglas County Board of Commissioners Chair Tim Freeman praised the coordinated response: “Douglas Forest Protective Association demonstrated swift and effective firefighting capabilities last night on Mount Nebo. Equally crucial was the strong cooperation between DFPA and other responding agencies. We are deeply grateful for the tireless dedication displayed by everyone involved, especially considering the challenging conditions and proximity to numerous homes and businesses. Our community benefits greatly from such robust teamwork.”

With fire danger remaining high, Roseburg Fire Department, DFPA, and Central Douglas Fire & Rescue remind residents to adhere to current fire restrictions for everyone's safety.