Medford, Ore. – Critical fire weather conditions will grip the Rogue Valley Tuesday afternoon as strong winds and low humidity combine to create a dangerous wildfire environment. The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for 2 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, followed by a Fire Weather Watch for Wednesday afternoon and evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Medford, northwest winds of 10 to 15 mph with gusts up to 25 mph, paired with humidity levels as low as 10 percent, could lead to rapid fire growth. The warning covers Medford, White City, Gold Hill, Jacksonville, Talent, Phoenix, Ashland, and surrounding rural areas in both the Rogue and Illinois valleys, including Grants Pass, Wilderville, and Murphy.
Officials urge residents to prepare now by packing “go kits” with essential documents and supplies, filling gas tanks, and signing up for local emergency alerts. All outdoor burning remains banned, and activities that could spark fires should be avoided.
Fire danger is expected to remain high into midweek, with the next critical window arriving Wednesday afternoon. Additional Red Flag Warnings are possible.
