Gov Kotek Warns of “Dangerous Summer” as Oregon Readies for 2025 Wildfire Season

Salem, Oregon- Governor Tina Kotek and top wildfire response leaders held a briefing Tuesday as Oregon braces for another challenging wildfire season, urging residents to prepare early and support the state’s front-line responders.

Speaking at the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) Fire Cache, where wildfire equipment is stored and deployed, Kotek outlined preparations underway and signed a proclamation declaring May 2025 as Wildfire Awareness Month.

“Record-setting wildfire seasons across the West are getting longer and more devastating. What we know to be an ‘average fire season’ has long passed,” Kotek said. “Our state has spent the off-season preparing to take on what we know will be another dangerous summer.”

Joined by officials from the Oregon Department of Forestry, Oregon State Fire Marshal, Oregon Department of Emergency Management, Oregon National Guard, and others, Kotek emphasized personal responsibility as a key part of the state’s wildfire strategy.

“So here’s my challenge to all Oregonians: support first responders and frontline workers by doing your part,” she said. “Know the fire danger level where you are, get your home’s defensible space prepared, and please follow all local fire restrictions.”

Oregon experienced a record-breaking wildfire season in 2024, with 1,956 fires burning more than 1.9 million acres statewide. While the full impact of the 2025 season is still uncertain, forecasters expect hotter and drier conditions in the early months.

ODF, which protects 16 million acres across Oregon, is deploying early detection tools such as Multi-Mission Aircraft and a wildfire detection camera network to respond quickly to new fire starts. Last year, 93% of ODF fires were contained at under 10 acres.

More than 700 ODF personnel will operate engines, heavy equipment and aviation resources, supported by contracts with the Oregon Military Department and out-of-state partners.

The Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM), which oversees the Oregon Fire Mutual Aid System, responded to a record 17 urban wildfire conflagrations in 2024. Through its Response Ready Oregon program, the agency has distributed 76 new fire engines to departments statewide and funded staffing for an additional 1,000 firefighters this year.

OSFM is also working to make communities more fire-resilient, with nearly 4,500 defensible space assessments completed and ongoing risk-reduction projects funded through community grants.

Kotek and state officials are urging Oregonians to take specific steps now to reduce fire risk, including removing flammable materials from around homes, pruning trees, maintaining clean roofs and gutters, and being ready to evacuate with emergency plans in place.

“We must do everything we can to keep Oregonians’ lives, land, and property safe while enjoying the beautiful outdoors this summer,” Kotek said.