A multi-agency drug investigation spanning months came to a dramatic close Wednesday night in Madras, ending in a high-speed chase, a PIT maneuver, and the arrest of seven people on charges ranging from drug delivery to felon in possession of a firearm.

With fire danger at the extreme level, burn restrictions in place since May, and a long holiday weekend approaching, Jefferson County Fire & EMS and state forestry officials are urging residents to be especially vigilant. Here is a complete rundown of what is and is not allowed.

With thousands of Central Oregon families expected to visit Lake Billy Chinook this weekend, state health officials are urging caution: toxic algae levels remain above safe limits, and the advisory now covers the entire lake.

A months-long investigation by the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement team and the DEA culminated Wednesday night in the arrest of seven people, including two Madras residents suspected of dealing commercial quantities of fentanyl and methamphetamine throughout Central Oregon.

With Central Oregon fire danger rated EXTREME and a burn ban in effect since May, Jefferson County Fire & EMS is urging residents to take serious precautions heading into the Fourth of July holiday — even as fireworks remain legal.

Crews from four agencies knocked down a fast-moving grassland fire on the Crooked River National Grassland Tuesday afternoon, stopping its spread within an hour. The cause is still under investigation.

Experts warn 2026 could be one of Central Oregon’s most dangerous fire seasons in years. A dry winter, persistent drought, and early heat have fuels primed across Jefferson County and the surrounding region. Here’s what residents need to know.

Oregon Health Authority has issued a recreational use health advisory for Lake Billy Chinook in Jefferson County due to cyanotoxins above safe levels. Swimming and water contact are discouraged, but fishing, camping, and boating remain viable with precautions.

Fire managers are reminding Central Oregon residents and visitors that Stage 1 Public Use Fire Restrictions remain in effect across national forests and BLM lands, with fire danger currently rated Extreme — the highest level.

Five power outages have hit the Madras area since the start of June, driven by PacifiCorp’s wildfire safety settings and equipment problems. Jefferson County leaders and irrigation managers say the disruptions are causing real financial harm.

Jefferson County officials and farmers are frustrated by a string of power outages in Madras tied to PacifiCorp's wildfire prevention "enhanced safety settings." Since early June, five outages have hit the area — disrupting irrigation operations and daily life. PacifiCorp says the outages are necessary given extreme fire danger.