GRANTS PASS, Ore. (Aug. 1, 2026) — Firefighters are mounting an aggressive air and ground attack this afternoon on a fast-moving grass fire burning along Interstate 5 near Grants Pass as the blaze grew from an estimated 10 acres to approximately 50-60 acres within hours.
CURRENT EVACUATIONS (8/1/26 9:50P)
The fire prompted Level 3 “Go Now” evacuation orders for evacuation zones GRA-022, GRA-034 and GRA-036, according to emergency officials.
The fire prompted Level 1 “Be Ready” evacuation orders for evacuation zones JCU-422-B, according to emergency officials.
Crews from the Oregon Department of Forestry and local structural fire agencies responded to the fire and began an aggressive initial attack to slow its spread. Officials said both of ODF’s Type 2 helicopters were actively conducting water bucket drops, while a third Type 2 helicopter was en route to assist.
Fire managers also ordered significant additional aerial resources, including four Large Air Tankers and one Very Large Air Tanker to make retardant drops in an effort to contain the fire.
Earlier in the response, the fire was estimated at approximately 10 acres, with multiple engines and firefighters working alongside air resources to suppress the blaze.
Officials urged motorists traveling on Interstate 5 near the fire to use caution, remain alert for emergency vehicles and give firefighters plenty of room to work.
“ I-5 has one laneclosed northbound in Grants Pass due to a fire in the area. This is causing delays and traffic to back up. Use caution as smoke may also limit visibility. Please pay attention, slow down and move over for workers in the area. Roads and lanes near fires may open or close with little notice.” ODOT said in an update.
No information on the cause of the fire was immediately available.
Medford Alert News will provide additional updates as conditions change.
UPDATE (5:39P):Power has been shut off due to wildfire on Beacon Hill on the east side of Grants Pass. Approximately 2000 customers are without power until it can be safely restored.
UPDATE (7:13P): The I-5 one lane closure northbound in Grants Pass has been expanded due to a fire in the area.
This is causing delays and traffic to back up. Use caution as smoke may also limit visibility.
Please pay attention, slow down and move over for workers in the area. Roads and lanes near fires may open or close with little notice
UPDATE (9:50P):
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