The National Interagency Fire Center’s June outlook shows above-normal significant wildland fire potential across Northern California and parts of the Northwest, with the risk expanding across Oregon as summer progresses. The forecast does not predict specific fires, but it signals a greater-than-usual likelihood of significant wildfires during the June through September outlook period.

The U.S. Forest Service says it has more than 28,000 responders ready for the 2026 wildfire season, along with hotshot crews, engines, aircraft, contractors and a national logistics system designed to move resources quickly when fires start.

Evacuation levels have been reduced Tuesday morning for the Blackwell Fire near rural Central Point after crews completed a containment line around the fire perimeter overnight. Jackson County Fire District 3 says no homes were lost or damaged, though several outbuildings and industrial-type buildings were damaged inside the fire area.

Jacksonville Police Department responded to several calls during the week of May 11 through May 17, including a reported grass fire on Highway 238, a small fire near a downtown business, traffic-related arrests, and a dirt bike eluding case. Officers also participated in wildfire preparedness and public safety events.

The Oregon State Fire Marshal has awarded nearly $6 million to 180 local fire agencies through the 2026 Wildfire Season Staffing Grant. The funding will help agencies add seasonal firefighters or additional shift coverage through October as Oregon prepares for the upcoming wildfire season.

Jackson County Emergency Management will conduct its annual pre-fire season test of the Jackson Alerts mass notification system on Friday, May 1. The test will include alerts sent to registered users and a live Emergency Alert System message broadcast through local radio and cable television.