Ashland Oregon Fire: Level 3 Evacuation Orders Issued, Southbound Interstate 5 Closed

Situation Summary

As of August 2, 2023, a fast-moving wildfire in Ashland, Oregon has forced the issuing of Level 3 evacuation orders. The blaze, named the "Bear Creek Fire," began at 7:10 AM local time on Tuesday, August 1.

The Oregon Department of Transportation has closed southbound Interstate 5 in the Ashland area for safety reasons.

Ashland is nestled at the base of the Siskiyou Mountains and is a popular tourist destination known for its Shakespeare festival and beautiful scenery.

Evacuation Orders

Level 3 Evacuation Order Area

A Level 3 (GO NOW) evacuation order is in effect for the following areas:

• South of Emigrant Lake
• North of Tolman Creek Road
• West of I-5
• East of Green Springs Highway

Evacuation Route

Residents in the evacuation area should leave immediately and follow these evacuation routes:

• West on Emigrant Lake Road
• South on Highway 99
• West on Highway 238

Shelter Information

An evacuation center has been established at Ashland High School, located at 201 S Mountain Ave, Ashland, OR 97520.

Additional evacuation centers may be opened as needed.

Road Closures

In addition to the closure of southbound I-5, the following roads are also closed:

• Tolman Creek Road
• Green Springs Highway

Fire Information

The Bear Creek Fire is estimated to have burned over 8,000 acres as of Tuesday evening.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Firefighters are working to contain the blaze, but no containment has been reported at this time.

Stay Informed

For the latest information on the Bear Creek Fire, please visit the Jackson County Sheriff's Office website at https://www.jacksoncountysheriff.net/ or follow the Sheriff's Office on social media.

You can also sign up for emergency alerts at https://www.jacksoncountyor.org/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=13132