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.
ODF ends 2026 fire season in Jackson, Josephine counties after 166 days
The 2026 fire season has officially ended across ODF-protected lands in Jackson and Josephine counties after 166 days. Firefighters responded to 210 fires that burned approximately 17,220 acres, while 95% of incidents were held to 10 acres or less.
Truck Driver’s Quick Action Prevents Fire From Spreading Near School
A garbage truck driver helped prevent a larger fire near Manzanita Elementary School by dumping a burning load in an open parking lot. Rural Metro Fire and ODF extinguished the debris during Red Flag conditions.
Oregon Awards $6M for Wildfire Staffing
The Oregon State Fire Marshal has awarded nearly $6 million to 180 local fire agencies through the 2026 Wildfire Season Staffing Grant. The funding will help agencies add seasonal firefighters or additional shift coverage through October as Oregon prepares for the upcoming wildfire season.
Open Burning Window Announced in Klamath County
Klamath County Fire District 1 has announced the 2026 open burning window, set for March 28 through April 12. Fire officials warn that rising fire danger and already reported escaped burns make caution critical. Residents are reminded to follow size, clearance, and supervision requirements to prevent fires from spreading.
Redmond Garage Fire Quickly Contained
Fire crews in Redmond quickly contained a garage fire Saturday evening after gasoline vapors ignited near a propane heater, preventing the blaze from spreading into the home. All residents and pets escaped safely, and no injuries were reported.
Garage Fire Linked to Electric Vehicle Battery on Bend’s Westside
A Christmas Eve garage fire on Bend’s west side was traced to a failed lithium-ion battery in a converted electric vehicle, according to Bend Fire & Rescue. Fire crews were able to contain the blaze, preventing it from spreading into the main living space, though the home was left uninhabitable due to utility damage.