A broad swath of communities across Oregon and Washington are under active evacuation orders or warnings Wednesday as more than three dozen wildfires burn simultaneously across the two states. Level 3 "Go Now" orders — the highest evacuation level — are active in at least six Oregon counties and two Washington counties, affecting thousands of residents.

Oregon Evacuations by County

Umatilla County

The Lower Dry Creek Fire has prompted Level 3 "Go Now" and Level 2 "Be Set" orders for more than 1,650 residents near Milton-Freewater. The fire is 0% contained at 6,753 acres. Residents under Go Now orders should leave immediately. The designated emergency shelter is located at the Umatilla County Fairgrounds in Pendleton.

Jackson County

The East Evans Creek Fire has forced Level 3 evacuations near the community of Shady Cove along the Rogue River. The fire, which started when a driver crashed into a power pole, has grown to more than 3,600 acres. Fire behavior has been driven by low relative humidity and afternoon wind events in the Rogue River valley.

Wheeler County

The Crosswhite Fire continues to drive Level 1 through Level 3 evacuation orders across parts of Wheeler County. At roughly 4,000 acres, this fire prompted one of Governor Kotek's Emergency Conflagration Act declarations on July 15. Residents should monitor the Wheeler County Sheriff's Office for zone-specific updates.

Grant County

Both the Olive Butte Fire (2,400 acres) and the Salmon Fire (1,500 acres) are driving Level 3 evacuation orders near Greenhorn and in areas northeast of Baker City. Both fires are lightning-caused, and additional dry thunderstorm activity is forecast for the area through Thursday.

Malheur County

The Lytle Fire, burning approximately 2,000 acres near Vale in Malheur County, has been exhibiting extreme fire behavior and is driving Level 3 evacuations in its vicinity. The area's flat terrain and dry grass fuels have allowed for rapid spread.

Washington Evacuations

Grant County

The Garred Road Fire, burning approximately 3,500 acres, has prompted Level 3 evacuation orders for the Sun Lakes area — including Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park. Washington's Governor has authorized State Fire Mobilization for this incident as the fire threatens residential structures, the state park, and wheat fields in the Coulee area. Evacuees should contact the Grant County Emergency Management office for shelter information.

Okanogan County

The Kaiser Canyon Fire, which ignited July 16 and has grown to approximately 2,200 acres, is driving Level 3 evacuations near the community of Nespelem on the Colville Reservation. Tribal and county agencies are coordinating the evacuation response.

What Evacuation Levels Mean

  • Level 1 – Be Ready: Be aware of the danger in your area, monitor emergency notifications, and prepare to leave.
  • Level 2 – Be Set: Be prepared to leave at a moment's notice. Have your go-bag packed, know your evacuation route, and be ready to leave immediately if conditions change.
  • Level 3 – Go Now: Leave immediately. Do not delay to gather belongings. If you are in a Level 3 area and have not left, leave now.

How to Stay Informed

Evacuation orders can change rapidly with wind shifts or new fire behavior. Residents should sign up for their county's emergency notification system. Oregon residents can use AlertOregon at alert.oregon.gov. Washington residents should register with their county's emergency management office or check ReadyWA.gov for resources.

Do not return to evacuated areas until official all-clear notices are issued, even if smoke has diminished. Fire conditions can remain dangerous long after visible flames subside.