Evacuation Orders Active Across Oregon: Linn, Umatilla, and Crook Counties Affected

Multiple Oregon counties are under active evacuation orders and warnings this week as wildfire activity continues to threaten rural communities, residences, and critical infrastructure. Residents in affected areas should check their local emergency management office for the most current zone boundaries and be prepared to leave immediately if under a Level 3 order.

Linn County: Sweet Home Area

Earlier this week, the Linn County Sheriff's Office issued Level 3 "Go Now!" evacuation orders for the Fern Ridge Road area west of Sweet Home, prompting residents to leave immediately. As of late Tuesday evening, an all-clear was issued and evacuation orders in that zone were lifted — a welcome development for residents who had been forced from their homes. However, the situation remains dynamic and conditions can change rapidly. Residents in the area are advised to continue monitoring local alerts.

Umatilla County: Paradise Fire

The Paradise Fire, burning approximately 15 miles south of Pendleton and currently at 5,195 acres with zero containment, has prompted evacuation orders and warnings in Umatilla County. Additional Level 2 "Be Set" and Level 1 "Be Ready" evacuations were issued Tuesday evening as the fire showed continued active behavior. The Paradise Fire is among the more concerning new incidents in northeastern Oregon, given its proximity to agricultural lands and rural residences in the Pendleton area.

Crook County: Rowe Creek Complex Flare-Up

A flare-up in the Rowe Creek Complex Fire — a massive incident at 373,784 acres approximately 10 miles south of Fossil — triggered Level 3 "Go Now!" evacuations in Crook County Tuesday evening. The Level 3 area covers the east side of NE Mill Creek Road from the intersection of Forest Service Road 3370 (end of the pavement) north to the Wildcat Campground. Residents in this area were ordered to evacuate immediately. Crook County Sheriff's Office is the lead agency for evacuation management in this zone.

Understanding Oregon's Evacuation Levels

Level 1 – Be Ready: Be aware of the danger that exists in your area. Prepare yourself and your property for possible evacuation.
Level 2 – Be Set: Be prepared to leave at a moment's notice. Have your go-kit ready and be ready to evacuate quickly if the situation worsens.
Level 3 – Go Now!: Leave immediately. Do not wait for further instruction. Taking time to gather belongings could cost you your life.

Additional Closures and Warnings

In addition to evacuation orders, road closures and area closures are in effect near multiple Oregon fires. Residents and visitors should avoid fire areas and follow all posted closure orders. Interfering with firefighting operations is a criminal offense.