Sams Valley, OR – Firefighters continue working to contain the East Evans Creek Fire in southern Oregon as challenging weather conditions, expanded evacuations, and road closures remain in effect Sunday.
According to the Oregon Department of Forestry Southwest Oregon District, the East Evans Creek Fire was estimated at 14,442 acres Sunday morning and is 8% contained. More than 2,000 personnel, including 72 hand crews, 135 engines, 57 pieces of heavy equipment, 58 water tenders, and 13 aircraft, are assigned to the incident.
Officials said firefighters worked overnight to strengthen and improve containment lines, taking advantage of increased overnight humidity after Saturday’s wind-driven fire activity. Crews continue to focus on the Board Mountain spot fire, where rugged terrain and limited access remain significant challenges. Other areas, including the main fire near Hull Mountain and the Canyon Creek spot fire, remain in containment and mop-up operations.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office upgraded evacuation levels in affected areas Saturday evening, and evacuation orders remain in place in both Jackson and Douglas counties. Residents are urged to check official county emergency management resources for the latest evacuation information.
The Tiller-Trail Highway remains closed from the Jackson County line to Highway 62. East Evans Creek Road at Meadows Road is also closed to the public, while additional Bureau of Land Management closures remain in effect around West Fork Evans Creek Road and Rock Creek Road.
Officials warned that smoke may reduce visibility and impact air quality throughout nearby communities as winds shift during the day. A Temporary Flight Restriction also remains in effect, and authorities reminded the public that flying drones near the wildfire is illegal and can interfere with firefighting operations.
The fire began on July 10, 2026, after a vehicle crashed into a power pole, igniting dry vegetation. The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the crash.
