MEDFORD, Ore. (Aug. 23, 2026) — The National Weather Service in Medford has issued a Red Flag Warning for portions of Southern Oregon and Northern California as hot, dry and windy conditions are expected to create an increased risk of rapid fire spread.
The warning is in effect from 11 a.m. Monday, Aug. 24, through 8 p.m. Monday for portions of the region.
The warning covers Oregon fire weather zones 621, 622 and 623, including the Siskiyou Mountains, Southern Cascade Mountains and Rogue Valley. In California, the warning covers fire weather zones 280 and 281, including Scott Valley, Shasta Valley and the Klamath River Valley.
In Oregon, west to northwest winds of 10 to 15 mph are expected, with gusts around 25 mph. In California, south to southwest winds of 10 to 20 mph are forecast, with gusts reaching around 30 mph.
Daytime relative humidity is expected to fall to between 8% and 15%, creating conditions favorable for rapid fire growth.
The National Weather Service warned that any fires that develop are likely to spread rapidly.
A Red Flag Warning does not mean a fire is currently burning. Rather, it indicates that weather conditions are occurring or are expected soon that can promote rapid fire spread and potentially create life-threatening conditions.
Officials are urging residents to follow all local fire restrictions and avoid activities that could create a spark.
Residents also are encouraged to sign up for their county’s emergency alert system, review their emergency plans and maintain multiple ways to receive emergency information.
The National Weather Service advises residents to follow instructions from emergency officials if a fire or other emergency develops.
“One less spark, one less wildfire,” the agency said.
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