SALEM, Ore. (Nov. 4, 2026) — Oregon’s 2026 wildfire season has officially come to a close after more than 2.5 million acres burned statewide, setting a new record for the most acreage burned in a single fire season, according to the Oregon Department of Forestry.
All Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) districts have terminated fire restrictions, marking the official end of the 2026 fire season.
According to the Northwest Interagency Coordination Center, more than 2.5 million acres burned across Oregon this year under all jurisdictions. The total surpasses the previous statewide record of approximately 1.9 million acres set in 2024.
State officials attributed the exceptionally active fire season to reduced snowpack last winter, which contributed to drought conditions and dry vegetation across Oregon. Multiple lightning events, followed by hot and windy weather, fueled new wildfires and contributed to rapid growth on existing fires.
“While we mark the end of the 2026 wildfire season, I want to thank our first responders, landowners, contractors, local governments, Tribal Nations, the Oregon National Guard, other state and international responders, and every person who worked tirelessly to protect lives and property,” Gov. Tina Kotek said. “Oregon’s resilience shines brightest in moments like these, and I am deeply grateful for the courage and collaboration that carried us through.”
On lands protected by ODF, approximately 1,023 fires have been reported year to date, burning 226,557 acres. Despite the challenging conditions, the department reported that 93% of fires on ODF-protected lands were contained at 10 acres or less.
“Safe but aggressive initial attack has been the cornerstone of ODF’s approach to firefighting through the department’s 115-year history,” State Forester Kacey KC said. “While the fire environment has dramatically increased in complexity over the years, we still do all we can to keep fires small to limit the impacts of fire and smoke on Oregonians, communities, and our natural resources.”
ODF Complex Incident Management Teams were mobilized seven times to wildfires during the season. The department also brought in a team from Florida through a state-to-state mutual aid agreement. That team assumed command of the East Evans Creek Fire after ODF Complex Incident Management Team 1 reached the end of its assignment.
In total, ODF mobilized 280 firefighting resources from 19 states, provinces and territories to assist with Oregon’s wildfire response.
“This season was one of the most demanding fire seasons we’ve ever experienced,” ODF Deputy Director of Fire Operations Kyle Williams said. “The rapidly-changing and extreme fire conditions again tested the entire system nationwide, but everyone gave it all they had.”
Although ODF-imposed fire restrictions on protected lands have been lifted, officials cautioned that some burning restrictions remain in place.
Many structural fire departments across Oregon may still require permits for debris burning, and slash burning requires a permit year-round. Residents are encouraged to check the state’s Before You Burn website or contact their local ODF office before starting any outdoor burning.
With the transition to fall and winter, ODF districts and fire managers will shift their focus toward wildfire prevention, fuels reduction, mitigation and preparedness planning.
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