Wasco Daily Brief – February 7, 2026

North Wasco methane leak recap

Cleanup crews have wrapped up work at a rural oil well north of town after a methane leak and small fire triggered a short evacuation order late last month. The incident happened near North Palm Avenue and Phillips Road, just north of Highway 46, while the well was being prepared for abandonment.

Firefighters quickly knocked down the flames and confined the hazard to the immediate well site, roughly a 30 foot radius. County hazmat and environmental health teams joined deputies on scene, and officials later reported only minor damage to equipment and no injuries. The evacuation order was lifted after a few hours, but residents may still notice work vehicles in the area as the operator finishes securing the site.

Mobile health clinic launches monthly visits

A new mobile health clinic is now making regular stops in Wasco, bringing primary care closer to families who struggle to travel for appointments. Operated by Kern Medical in partnership with a regional health plan, the custom RV is scheduled to visit the Wasco Police Activities League facility on Birch Avenue once a month.

The clinic offers lab work, sports and school physicals, vaccines, basic screenings for hearing, vision and oral health, and help enrolling in temporary Medi Cal. Walk ins are welcome, and most common insurance plans, including Medi Cal and Covered California options, are accepted. Organizers say the goal is to cut down travel time and make it easier for residents to get checked, referred and treated without leaving town.

Extra patrols for Super Bowl weekend

Heading into Super Bowl LIX weekend, local police are stepping up enforcement against impaired driving in and around Wasco. Extra officers are scheduled to be on patrol February 7 and 8, watching for drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs and for other dangerous behavior on the road.

Residents are being urged to plan their rides before parties begin by lining up a sober driver, using rideshare or taxis, and making sure guests do not drive after drinking. Officials also remind drivers that some prescription and over the counter medications, as well as cannabis products, can be impairing. The campaign is supported by a state traffic safety grant and is focused on getting everyone home safely after the game.

Sources

• https://www.wascotrib.com/story/2026/01/29/news/methane-leak-leads-to-evacuation-order/6640.html
• https://www.turnto23.com/news/in-your-neighborhood/shafter-wasco-lost-hills/methane-leak-prompts-evacuation-order-north-of-wasco
• https://www.wascotrib.com/story/2026/01/29/news/mobile-clinic-launches-in-wasco/6647.html
• https://www.wascotrib.com/story/2026/01/29/focus-on-wasco/city-spotlight-celebrate-super-bowl-responsibly-plan-ahead-with-a-sober-ride-before-the-big-game/6656.html
• https://www.cityofwasco.org/