The initial irrigation water allocation for the Klamath Project in 2026 is expected to fall significantly short of agricultural needs, according to the Klamath Water Users Association. The Bureau of Reclamation announced 221,000 acre-feet from Upper Klamath Lake, just over half of what is typically required. Officials say drought conditions, minimal snowpack, and regulatory constraints are contributing factors, and more than 40,000 acres may need to be idled this season.

The Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office is reporting an increase in gray wolf sightings near homes and a rise in livestock depredations this spring. Officials say at least 16 confirmed depredations have occurred since early February, including a recent incident in Butte Valley where two wolves were reported stalking dogs near a residence. Sheriff Jeremiah LaRue is calling for changes to California’s gray wolf management plan and urging residents to take precautions.

A suspect was shot and killed after allegedly pulling a firearm on officers during a traffic stop on Interstate 5 in Weed, California. Authorities say suspected methamphetamine was discovered in the vehicle before the officer-involved shooting occurred.

A toxic chemical spill in Dorris, California triggered a shelter-in-place order, highway closure, and emergency response as crews worked to neutralize paraquat, a highly dangerous herbicide. Officials say the scene is now safe, but caution remains in effect.

An 18-year-old Etna driver died early Friday morning after a single-vehicle crash on Oberlin Road east of Yreka. Authorities say the vehicle left the roadway and struck a tree, while a teenage passenger was transported to the hospital with injuries.

An elderly woman was seriously injured in a hit-and-run collision Saturday afternoon in Mount Shasta. Police say the driver, later identified as a 45-year-old man, was located, arrested, and booked on felony DUI and hit-and-run charges.

Roseburg Forest Products has closed its Weed, Calif., veneer plant as it consolidates production at upgraded Oregon facilities. The company says the move strengthens long-term competitiveness and affects about 140 employees.