Oregon Wildfire Preparedness: What Residents Should Know

Oregon continues to face wildfire risks during the 2026 fire season. State agencies remain focused on monitoring active fires, supporting local firefighting efforts, and helping communities prepare for changing conditions.

Although the level of statewide emergency coordination has decreased from earlier in the summer, officials continue to emphasize that wildfire risk remains and conditions can change quickly.

What Residents Need to Know

Wildfires can affect communities through flames, smoke, road closures, evacuations, and disruptions to everyday activities. Residents in fire-prone areas should stay informed and be prepared to leave if local officials issue an evacuation notice.

Current Fire Activity

The Oregon Department of Forestry maintains information on active large fires and statewide wildfire conditions. The Oregon State Fire Marshal also provides a current wildfire map and information about fires where state resources have been mobilized.

Evacuation Preparedness

Oregon uses a three-level evacuation system:

• 🟢 Level 1 — Be Ready: Stay informed and prepare to leave.
• 🟡 Level 2 — Be Set: Be prepared to leave at a moment’s notice.
• 🔴 Level 3 — Go Now: Leave immediately.

Residents should sign up for local emergency alerts, know their evacuation routes, and keep an emergency go-kit ready.

Air Quality Concerns

Wildfire smoke can affect air quality well beyond the immediate fire area. Oregon’s Department of Environmental Quality monitors air quality and issues advisories when wildfire smoke creates unhealthy conditions.

When smoke is present, residents are encouraged to reduce time outdoors, stay hydrated, and use cleaner indoor air when possible. People who are particularly sensitive to smoke should pay close attention to current air-quality conditions.

Stay Informed

Residents should rely on official sources for evacuation orders, fire locations, road conditions, and air-quality information. Conditions can change rapidly, so checking current information before traveling or making outdoor plans is important.

Reliable Resources

• Oregon State Fire Marshal — current wildfire information and maps
• Oregon Department of Forestry — active fires, fire danger, and restrictions
• Oregon Department of Emergency Management — evacuation guidance and emergency alerts
• Oregon Department of Environmental Quality — wildfire smoke and air-quality information
• TripCheck — current road conditions and closures

Wildfire conditions can change quickly. Always follow instructions from local emergency officials and check official sources for the latest information affecting your community.