SAMS VALLEY, Ore. (Jul. 14, 2026) — Firefighters battling the East Evans Creek Fire west of Shady Cove are preparing for another difficult day Tuesday as hot, dry weather, gusty and erratic winds, and the potential for isolated dry thunderstorms threaten to intensify fire behavior across the incident.
The fire grew by an estimated 1,742 acres overnight, bringing its total size to 5,370 acres, according to an overnight infrared mapping flight. Fire managers said the flight identified multiple spot fires outside the fire’s northeastern perimeter, where crews are working to gain access and suppress new fire activity.
The wildfire remained highly active Monday evening, exhibiting extreme fire behavior and spotting across its northern, northwestern and northeastern flanks. Oregon State Fire Marshal structural firefighters worked alongside wildland crews to protect homes along East Evans Creek Road and Morrison Creek as flames advanced to the edges of several properties. Firefighters extinguished spot fires, put out ember-caused ignitions and successfully defended threatened structures.
As fire activity diminished overnight, crews strengthened firelines, cooled hot spots and attacked new spot fires while heavy equipment improved access in rugged terrain. Aircraft continued supporting suppression efforts into the evening, dropping retardant and cooling active sections of the fire to assist firefighters on the ground.
Fire managers said additional hand crews, engines, heavy equipment, aviation resources and overhead personnel arrived overnight, with more resources expected throughout Tuesday. Officials said the reinforcements reflect the increasing complexity of the incident and will allow crews to strategically strengthen containment lines, improve access, protect homes and respond quickly to new fire activity.
Forecasts call for poor overnight humidity recovery, high temperatures, isolated dry thunderstorms and gusty outflow winds capable of producing rapidly changing fire conditions. Firefighters expect another active burning period and the potential for a large smoke column to develop. Aircraft will continue supporting suppression efforts where conditions permit, while structural protection crews monitor homes for ember showers and rapidly respond to new spot fires.
Officials emphasized that firefighter and public safety remain the top priorities and said suppression tactics may change throughout the day as weather conditions evolve.
The fire ignited Friday at approximately 2:41 p.m. after a vehicle crashed into a power pole, sparking dry vegetation. The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the cause of the crash.
Smoke from the fire is expected to settle into valleys and other low-lying areas, reducing visibility and affecting air quality in nearby communities as winds shift throughout the day. People sensitive to smoke are encouraged to limit exposure and monitor current air quality conditions.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Jackson County Emergency Management have expanded evacuation notices. A Level 3 “Go Now” evacuation remains in effect for zone JAC-124 and JAC-148A, including residences along East Evans Creek Road from addresses 19385 through 21899, as well as 21612 and 21615 Antioch Road.
Level 2 “Be Set” evacuations remain in place for zones JAC-016, JAC-147 and JAC-148B. Level 1 “Be Ready” notices remain in effect for zones JAC-003, JAC-004, JAC-017, JAC-026, JAC-036, JAC-109, JAC-126 and JAC-149B.
An evacuation shelter for residents and domestic pets remains open at Hanby Middle School in Gold Hill. Horses may be taken to the Jackson County Expo in Central Point, with livestock owners encouraged to call ahead to confirm available space.
East Evans Creek Road remains closed to the public at Meadows Road to allow firefighters and heavy equipment to operate safely. A temporary flight restriction also remains in effect over the fire area. Officials reminded the public that flying drones near wildfires is illegal and can interfere with aerial firefighting operations.
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