Medford, OR – Dangerous fire conditions are expected across Northern California and Southern Oregon Monday as multiple Red Flag Warnings have been issued, coinciding with two major wildfires that grew overnight and forced widespread evacuations.
According to the National Weather Service in Medford, thunderstorms producing abundant lightning are forecast Monday afternoon between 1 p.m. and 9 p.m. across Siskiyou County, the Rogue Valley, and the Umpqua National Forest in Oregon. Officials warn that lightning strikes on dry fuels could spark new fires, while gusty outflow winds reaching 50 mph could rapidly spread flames.
In California, the Pickett Fire in Napa County has expanded to more than 10 square miles and was 11% contained Sunday morning, according to Cal Fire. About 190 residents have been ordered to evacuate, while another 360 remain under warning. The fire is threatening about 500 structures near Aetna Springs and Pope Valley. More than 1,200 firefighters and 10 helicopters are assigned to the blaze.
Meanwhile in Oregon, the Flat Fire in Deschutes and Jefferson counties has burned nearly 34 square miles and prompted evacuation notices for about 4,000 homes, including 1,000 under immediate evacuation orders, according to the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Office. Some homes have already been lost, though officials were still confirming the extent of damage as of Sunday.
Firefighters face steep terrain, triple-digit heat, and low humidity, while forecasters warn isolated thunderstorms could complicate suppression efforts.
Officials urge residents in both states to sign up for emergency alerts and prepare evacuation plans as conditions remain volatile. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged during the Red Flag period.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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