Jefferson County
Drought Emergency Bites Hard: Jefferson County Ranchers and Farmers Brace for a Punishing Summer
With 94% of Jefferson County under a state-declared drought emergency and irrigation districts warning of tighter supplies, Central Oregon's agricultural community is managing one of the most severe drought years on record.
Public Safety
Three Major Central Oregon Fires Near Containment, But Red Flag Warnings Keep Crews on Edge
The Henry, Coyote, and Shingle fires are all trending toward full containment, and Highway 26 between Prineville and Mitchell has reopened — but forecasted thunderstorms and lingering dry fuels are keeping fire managers on high alert this weekend.
Local News
Warm Springs Water Safe to Drink Again as Tribe Shifts Focus to Long-Term Fire Recovery
With the Bench Fire largely contained, the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs have lifted a boil water notice and confirmed their water system is safe. The tribe's recovery fund has surpassed $324,000, but leaders say the hardest work is still ahead.
Events
Airshow of the Cascades Returns to Madras Aug. 28–29 with Jets, Music, and 20,000 Fans
The annual Airshow of the Cascades is two weeks away, bringing aerobatic jets, two live music stages, food vendors, and the Erickson Aircraft Collection to the Madras Municipal Airport on August 28 and 29.
Sports
White Buffaloes Look to Build on Last Season as Fall Camp Opens
Madras High School football players are back on the practice field as the 2026 season approaches. With the first regular-season games just weeks away, the White Buffaloes are working through fall camp and preparing to compete in the Tri-River Conference.
Events
Airshow of the Cascades Returns to Madras August 28–29 — Two Weeks Away
The annual Airshow of the Cascades is just two weeks out, set for August 28 and 29 at the Madras Municipal Airport. The two-day event brings aerobatics, military aircraft, a car show, live music, and food vendors to Jefferson County — one of the region's biggest summer draws.