Evacuation orders and warnings are in effect across multiple counties in Oregon and Washington this weekend as wildfire activity reaches critical intensity. Firefighters are battling extreme conditions including wind-driven fire runs, long-range spotting, and explosive growth that have outpaced suppression efforts on several fronts.

Harney County: Hat Fire Triggers Mandatory Evacuations

The Hat Fire, burning on BLM Vale District land approximately 40 miles east of Burns, Oregon, has triggered mandatory evacuation orders for areas in its path. The fire is burning through grass and brush fuels with extreme fire behavior — including wind-driven runs and spotting ahead of the main fire front — threatening structures and making forward progress difficult to stop.

Harney County residents under evacuation orders should:

  • Leave immediately — do not wait for further notice
  • Take medications, documents, and pets
  • Follow designated evacuation routes and avoid fire areas
  • Check in at local Red Cross shelters
  • Monitor Harney County Emergency Management on Facebook and at harneycounty.com

Wheeler and Gilliam Counties: Rowe Creek and Hay Creek Complexes

The Rowe Creek Complex near Fossil and the Hay Creek Complex near Condon have both resulted in area and road closures in Wheeler and Gilliam counties. Residents in affected areas should be on standby alert and ready to evacuate on short notice. The fires are actively burning in grass and brush under red flag conditions, with the potential for rapid, unexpected growth.

North Cascades National Park: Luna and Border 2 Fires

In Washington, lightning-caused fires within the North Cascades National Park Service Complex are burning on steep terrain with limited access. Firefighting resources continue fire suppression actions on the Luna and Border 2 Fires. Road closures and area restrictions are in place for public and firefighter safety.

Visitors to the park area should expect closures and check nps.gov/noca for updated access information. Nearby communities should monitor Whatcom and Skagit County emergency management channels for any evacuation directives should the fires move toward private lands.

Know Your Evacuation Level

Oregon and Washington use a three-level evacuation system:

  • Level 1 (Ready): Be aware and prepare to leave. Have your go bag ready.
  • Level 2 (Set): Be prepared to leave on short notice. Vulnerable populations should leave now.
  • Level 3 (Go): Leave immediately. Do not delay — your life is at risk.

For the most current evacuation status across Oregon, visit oregon.gov/OEM. Washington residents can check the WA Notify system and their county sheriff's website. Never re-enter an evacuation zone without official clearance.