Weather
El Niño Winter Outlook: Warmer, Drier Conditions Expected to Impact Jefferson County Through Spring
A strong El Niño pattern — already producing record-warm October temperatures in Central Oregon — is projected to bring below-normal snowpack and tighter water supplies through winter and into the 2027 growing season.
Sports
White Buffalos Football Battles Through Tough Season in New Greater Oregon League
Madras High School's varsity football team is 1-5 through six games in their first year competing in the Greater Oregon League — a new classification alignment that has the Buffalos traveling farther and facing stiff competition.
Local News
Warm Springs Tribal Enterprises Project $12 Million in Community Dividends for 2027
Warm Springs Power & Water is projected to contribute $12 million in dividends to fund tribal community services in 2027, as the Confederated Tribes head into open enrollment season on a solid financial footing.
Events
Museum at Warm Springs Accepting Entries Through Oct. 20 for 33rd Annual Tribal Member Exhibit
The Museum at Warm Springs is accepting artwork submissions through October 20 for its 33rd Annual Tribal Member and Youth Exhibit, with an opening reception set for November 18.
Jefferson County
Jefferson County Ballots Hit Mailboxes Today — Here's What's on Your November Ballot
Jefferson County voters will find their November general election ballots arriving starting today, Oct. 14. On the ballot: contested races for Madras mayor, city council, county sheriff, and a five-year jail levy renewal.
Weather
Dry October Raises Alarm for Jefferson County Farmers as Drought Threatens Second Straight Tough Year
A stubborn drought gripping 57.6% of Oregon shows no signs of breaking this fall, while fire season remains officially in effect — a compounding challenge for Jefferson County farmers and ranchers who may be facing a second straight year of water shortages.