Thousands of Oregonians are under evacuation orders as a wave of wildfires burns across the state, with Level 3 "Go Now" orders in effect across Baker, Grant, Jackson, Umatilla, and Wheeler counties as of Monday morning, July 20, 2026.

Lower Dry Creek Fire: Homes Lost in Umatilla County

The Lower Dry Creek Fire near Milton-Freewater is among the most destructive incidents currently burning in Oregon. The fire ignited July 14 with an unknown cause and rapidly expanded to nearly 7,000 acres. As of the most recent report, the fire is 0–5% contained with approximately 96 personnel assigned.

At least five primary residences have been destroyed, according to the Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) and the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF). Level 3 "Go Now" orders cover large portions of the affected area. Governor Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act for the Lower Dry Creek Fire, mobilizing additional structural firefighting resources from across Oregon and neighboring states.

Salmon and Olive Butte Fires: Evacuations Near Greenhorn, Granite

In Baker and Grant counties, the Salmon Fire (1,495 acres, 15% contained) and the adjacent Olive Butte Fire (2,747 acres, 15% contained) are being managed together under Northwest Incident Management Team 12 (NW Team 12), which assumed command on July 11. Evacuation notices are in effect for the communities of Greenhorn, Olive Creek, and Granite. The fires are burning in extremely steep terrain with heavy dead-and-downed fuel loading, which has slowed line construction and contributed to long-range spotting.

East Evans Creek Fire: Jackson County

The East Evans Creek Fire in Jackson County has burned approximately 13,090 acres after starting when a vehicle struck a power pole. Level 1 through Level 3 evacuation alerts cover portions of the Sam's Valley area. Firefighters have been battling spot fires and erratic fire behavior as the fire moves through mixed brush and timber. New spot fires have complicated containment efforts.

Rowe Creek Complex: Wheeler County

The Rowe Creek Complex — comprising the Crosswhite, Camel Hump, and Redrock fires — is burning in Wheeler County with the Crosswhite Fire alone exceeding 13,883 acres. Level 1, 2, and 3 evacuation alerts are in place across the area. Governor Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act for the Rowe Creek Complex on July 17, sending structural task forces from across the state.

Washington: Kaiser Canyon Fire Evacuations

In Washington state, the Kaiser Canyon Fire in Okanogan County has prompted Level 3 "Go Now" evacuation orders near Nespelem on the Colville Reservation, with Level 1 and 2 notices across a wide area of northern Okanogan County.

Evacuation Guidance

Residents under evacuation orders should:

  • Leave immediately if under a Level 3 order — do not wait to gather belongings
  • Follow designated evacuation routes and avoid fire areas
  • Register at the nearest Red Cross evacuation shelter
  • Contact your county sheriff or emergency management agency for shelter locations
  • Do not return home until evacuation orders are officially lifted

Oregon residents can monitor evacuation orders at oregon.gov/OEM. Washington residents should check with the Okanogan County Emergency Management office.