Neil Creek Fire Forces Evacuation Alerts and Closes I-5 as Flames Spread Near Ashland

ASHLAND, Ore. — As firefighters have continued to battle the Neil Creek fire burning East of I-5 near Neil Creek Road since yesterday, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) upgraded the alert to level 2 across several zones.

Neil Creek Fire Ashland: Update

By late last night, the fire had covered 124.4 acres, as firefighters had built and held lines around the perimeter, despite hot and windy conditions.

By yesterday, firefighters had solidified the line around 50% of the fire’s perimeter. They continued working overnight, with the help of additional retardant drops.

Yesterday, Emergency fire teams were deployed to the Rogue Valley, and JSCO fire alerts have been upgraded as follows:

• Zone JAC-543 is upgraded from Level 1 to Level 2 – Be Set to evacuate.
• Zones JAC-546 and JAC-559 are activated at a Level 2 – Be Set to evacuate.
• Zones JAC-536, JAC-542, and JAC-558 are still under Level 2 – Be Set to evacuate

A Level 2 – BE SET to evacuate alert means there is significant danger in the alert area. Be ready to leave at a moment’s notice. To find out what zone you live in, go to https://protect.genasys.com/

More thunderstorms and hot temperatures are forecast, presenting additional challenges for firefighters.

According to the Watchduty app, reports also indicate that one lane of I-5 is closed between mile markers 8.5 and 10.5 on both the southbound and northbound sides, affecting traffic. Check for updates before leaving to avoid detours.