The East Evans Creek Fire, burning approximately 14 miles northeast of Rogue River in Jackson County, has grown to more than 13,000 acres and remains Oregon's largest active wildfire as of July 17–18, 2026. Containment stands at just 5%, according to the Oregon Department of Forestry.

Fire Location and Behavior

The fire is located in the Rogue Valley region of southwestern Oregon, an area characterized by dry mixed-conifer and oak woodland fuels. Fire behavior has been driven by hot afternoon temperatures, low relative humidity, and terrain-influenced winds. Spotting and torching have been observed on the fire's active flanks.

The East Evans Creek Fire is one of several new large fires that ignited across Oregon following a dry lightning outbreak earlier this week. Fire managers have noted that fuel conditions across much of southern Oregon are critically dry, with dead fuel moisture levels well below seasonal norms.

Evacuation Orders in Jackson County

The fire has prompted evacuation notices at multiple levels across surrounding rural areas of Jackson County:

  • Level 3 (Go Now): Immediate evacuation required for residents closest to the fire perimeter
  • Level 2 (Be Set): Residents should be packed and ready to leave immediately upon notice
  • Level 1 (Be Ready): Residents should be aware, monitor conditions, and prepare to leave

Jackson County Emergency Management has activated its emergency operations center and is coordinating with the Oregon Department of Forestry and federal partners on suppression efforts. Residents are urged to monitor the Jackson County Sheriff's Office and Oregon Office of Emergency Management for the latest evacuation zone updates.

Firefighting Resources

Multiple air tankers, helicopters, hand crews, and engines have been assigned to the East Evans Creek Fire. Fire managers are working to establish anchor points and construct direct and indirect containment lines, but steep terrain and volatile fire behavior have complicated operations. Crews worked through the night on structure protection in areas under Level 3 orders.

Broader Oregon Fire Picture

The East Evans Creek Fire is the largest among at least 23 wildfires currently burning across Oregon. Other notable active incidents include the Lower Dry Creek Fire in Umatilla County, the Salmon Fire, and the Crosswhite Fire in Wheeler County. The Oregon Department of Forestry reports that conditions statewide remain at or near record-high fire danger for mid-July.

For the latest information on the East Evans Creek Fire, residents can visit InciWeb at inciweb.wildfire.gov or call the Oregon Department of Forestry's Medford District at (541) 664-3328.