Chelan Hills, North Cayuse Fires Prompt 'Go Now' Orders as Fourth of July Weekend Brings Wave of New Ignitions

The Fourth of July holiday weekend proved to be one of the most active ignition periods of the 2026 fire season in the Pacific Northwest. Multiple major fires broke out across Oregon and Washington on July 4, driven by a combination of extremely dry fuels, high temperatures, low humidity, and — in some cases — fireworks activity.

Washington: Chelan Hills Fire

The Chelan Hills Fire ignited just after midnight on July 4 near U.S. Highway 97 in Orondo, Douglas County. Level 3 "Go Now" evacuation orders were immediately issued for communities surrounding the Lake Chelan area as the fire quickly grew to thousands of acres. Approximately 500 residents were forced to evacuate. At least one death has been confirmed when deputies discovered human remains in a vehicle consumed by the fire on Highway 97.

Oregon: North Cayuse Fire

Firefighters responded to the North Cayuse Fire near Cayuse Road east of Pendleton at approximately 3:30 p.m. on July 4. The fire rapidly spread into timber, brush, and grass. The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation issued Level 3 evacuation orders for the Buckaroo Lane to Iskuulpa area that evening.

Oregon: Antelope Creek Fire

A third significant ignition occurred on July 4 north of Antelope, Oregon, in Wheeler County. The Antelope Creek Fire, managed by the Bureau of Land Management's Prineville District, burned approximately 1,261 acres in grass and brush. A Level 2 "Be Set" evacuation warning was issued for the town of Antelope. As of July 7, the fire is approximately 80% contained.

Fireworks Factor

Fire officials across the region had warned residents heading into the holiday weekend about the heightened risk. Oregon fire officials urged caution but did not issue new statewide fireworks restrictions. Multiple cities and counties across Oregon and Washington imposed local fireworks bans. Several communities replaced professional aerial fireworks shows with drone light shows to eliminate ignition risk entirely.

Looking Ahead

The wave of July 4 fire starts is consistent with historical patterns, but this year's combination of below-normal spring precipitation and above-normal temperatures created exceptionally receptive fuels across much of the Pacific Northwest. Officials are urging the public to remain vigilant throughout the summer.