Ashland Area Fire Prompts Evacuation Downgrade Yet Crews Urge Public to Stay Alert

ASHLAND, Ore. — After evacuation alerts eased as the Neil Creek Fire slowed down earlier this week, continued firefighting efforts have resulted in the evacuation being downgraded to Level 1 across all zones near the fire.

Jackson County Sheriff, Oregon (JCSO) confirmed that although there will be smoke in the area while firefighters continue their work, zones JAC-536, JAC-542, JAC-543, JAC-546, JAC-558, and JAC-559 (south of Ashland) are downgraded from Level 2 to Level 1 – Be Ready to evacuate.

Portions of I-5 are also still restricted to one lane because of hazardous trees and crews working in the area.

Be aware that conditions can change rapidly, even with the downgraded alert, and many hazards, such as active fire, hazardous trees, etc., remain. JCSO reminded the public to be cautious when in this zone.