SALEM, Ore. (Aug 2, 2026) — Oregon wildfire activity continues at a heightened level as firefighters battle dozens of large incidents statewide, with more than 2 million acres burned so far this year.
According to the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF), there are currently 32 active large fires burning across the state. A total of 1,360 fires have been reported statewide year to date, burning approximately 2,014,481 acres.
Approximately 11,774 personnel are assigned to the 32 large fires, not including numerous local and agency government employees, landowners, forestland operators and community members contributing to firefighting efforts.
ODF said initial attack remains its top priority, with firefighters working to quickly respond to new starts and prevent additional fires from growing into larger incidents.
Fire officials continue urging Oregonians and visitors to use caution as hot, dry conditions and extreme fire behavior persist.
Residents are encouraged to:
- Check local fire restrictions before conducting outdoor activities.
- Avoid activities that could create sparks or ignite vegetation.
- Stay away from active firefighting areas.
- Follow evacuation orders, warnings and emergency alerts.
Dangerous Weather Pattern Continues
A strong area of high pressure over the Northeast Pacific is bringing hot and very dry conditions across the region, with elevated fire concerns expected through at least Friday.
Officials say poor humidity recovery is occurring across portions of eastern Oregon, with additional poor overnight recovery expected across higher terrain in both eastern and western Oregon.
North to northeast winds are expected east of the Cascades and through the Columbia Gorge, creating additional fire weather concerns. A thermal trough developing across the southern and central Oregon Cascades is also expected to increase instability and contribute to critical fire conditions.
Weather models indicate another dry cold frontal passage could develop next weekend, potentially bringing additional fire weather concerns.
Southwest Oregon Crews Highlight Recent Successes
ODF’s Southwest Oregon District highlighted recent responses to two fires that officials say demonstrate the effectiveness of aggressive initial attack and coordination with local fire agencies.
Saturday afternoon, ODF Southwest Oregon firefighters and local fire districts responded to a fast-moving wildfire near Interstate 5 at mile marker 57. Crews immediately launched an aggressive response, utilizing multiple aircraft to slow the fire’s spread and reduce impacts to nearby communities.
Within 45 minutes of that fire starting, firefighters were also responding to a three-alarm fire in White City. ODF resources were dispatched to assist local agencies and were positioned to protect the Veterans Affairs medical center.
By Sunday morning, both fires had been contained and crews had moved into mop-up operations.
ODF said the incidents demonstrate the importance of rapid response and cooperation between state and local firefighting agencies.
“Together, we can support each other and protect Oregonians,” the agency said.
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