Medford, Ore. – Fire danger will peak in southern Oregon Tuesday afternoon as the National Weather Service issues a Red Flag Warning for parts of the Rogue Valley, Illinois Valley, and Klamath Basin. From 2 p.m. to 8 p.m., strong winds and critically low humidity could drive rapid wildfire growth, with conditions expected to remain risky into Wednesday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Medford, gusts up to 25 mph in the Rogue and Illinois valleys and up to 30 mph in the Klamath Basin will combine with humidity levels as low as 9%. Communities under the warning include Medford, Grants Pass, Ashland, Klamath Falls, Lakeview, and surrounding rural areas. Outdoor burning remains banned, and residents are urged to avoid any activity that could spark a fire.
Emergency officials recommend keeping go kits ready, ensuring vehicles are fueled, and signing up for county emergency alerts. Those living in forested or rural areas should have evacuation plans in place and remain alert for updates.
Fire Weather Watches are already posted for Wednesday afternoon, signaling another round of dangerous fire conditions.
