Southern Oregon & Northern California News
Latest local news from Southern Oregon and Northern California, covering Medford, Ashland, Grants Pass, Klamath Falls, Jackson County, Josephine County, Klamath County, Siskiyou County, Del Norte County, and communities throughout the region.
Nearly 200 Abandoned Crab Traps Lead to Multi-Year Suspensions off Del Norte Coast
Nearly 200 abandoned Dungeness crab traps found off the Del Norte County coast have led to major penalties for two commercial fishermen. California wildlife officers documented 194 abandoned traps near the Klamath and Smith rivers, along with additional violations involving reporting, gear marking, trap servicing, and the waste of hundreds of crabs.
Red Flag Warning Arrives Ahead of Triple-Digit Heat Wave
A Red Flag Warning will cover the Rogue, Illinois, and Applegate valleys from Monday afternoon through Tuesday evening as dry, gusty weather raises fire danger. A Heat Advisory follows Tuesday through Thursday, with some inland communities forecast to reach 105 to 110 degrees.
Two Arrested in Smith River Drug and Firearm Investigation
Two Smith River residents were arrested after Del Norte County deputies served a search warrant on Fred Haight Drive. Investigators reported finding suspected narcotics, cash, a firearm and illegal fireworks at the property.
Fireworks Beach Cleanup Turns Into Life-Changing Emergency Near Crescent City
Jason Turner was picking up fireworks trash at Point St. George Beach near Crescent City when an explosive device went off, causing severe injuries. His family says Turner lost a hand, is facing more surgeries and is dealing with vision and hearing loss.
Heat Advisory Issued as First Summer Heat Wave Builds Across Region
The first significant heat wave of the summer is expected to bring 90-degree and triple-digit temperatures to much of Southern Oregon and Northern California this weekend, prompting heat advisories across several west side valleys, coastal areas and parts of far Northern California.
New Border Monument Added On U.S. 101
A new California welcome monument has been added along U.S. 101 at the California-Oregon border in Del Norte County. The project, made possible through Caltrans and Clean California, follows a similar border monument along Highway 199 and is intended to create a stronger first impression for travelers entering the state.
Prairie Creek Restoration Nears Public Opening (VIDEO)
The Yurok Tribe has planted thousands more native species at Prairie Creek as the future ‘O Rew Redwoods Gateway and Restoration Project moves closer to opening to the public.
New Welcome Monument Installed at California-Oregon Border
A new welcome monument has been installed along U.S. 199 at the California-Oregon border in Del Norte County, offering travelers a refreshed gateway into California. The project, funded through Caltrans and the Clean California initiative, is part of broader statewide beautification efforts, with another monument planned along U.S. 101.
Midday Highway Closures Planned for U.S. 199 and Route 197
Travelers along U.S. Highway 199 and State Route 197 in Del Norte County should prepare for four-hour midday closures starting as early as May as Caltrans begins major upgrades along the corridor. The multi-year project aims to improve safety and bring the route up to national truck standards, with closures expected Tuesdays through Thursdays for about one year.
Crescent City Man Arrested in Connection to Fireworks Explosion that Killed Seven
A Crescent City man was arrested after investigators seized a large cache of illegal fireworks and explosives during a search tied to the deadly July 1 Esparto explosion that killed seven people.