Updated: August 13, 2026 

Washington and Oregon are in the midst of one of the most severe wildfire seasons on record, with combined acreage across the two states now topping 3 million acres for 2026. Both states remain at National Preparedness Level 5, the highest level, meaning nearly all available firefighting resources nationwide are already committed.

Oregon: A record-breaking season

Oregon’s 2026 fire season is officially the largest on record, with more than 1,400 fires having burned upwards of 2.3 million acres — an area larger than Delaware and Rhode Island combined — well ahead of the typical August–September peak. That surpasses the previous record set in 2024.

The Big Grass Fire, straddling the Oregon–Idaho border near Jordan Valley (Malheur County, OR and Owyhee County, ID), has become the largest wildfire in Oregon history at roughly 579,000 acres and is about one-third contained. A Level 3 “Go Now” evacuation order remains active for parts of Owyhee County.

The Rowe Creek Complex, burning south of Fossil, has charred 373,777 acres and is 79% contained, though fire officials warn the remaining fireline — roughly 107 miles with 30,000 acres of uncontrolled ground — remains volatile. A Red Flag Warning was issued August 13 for dry lightning and gusts up to 40 mph.

The Grasshopper Fire in Wasco County has burned more than 83,600 acres, is only about 20% contained, and has destroyed six homes and 15 outbuildings. Highway 35 between Hood River and Highway 26 remains closed for hazard-tree removal.

Active evacuation orders remain in place across Baker, Clackamas, Crook, Deschutes, Gilliam, Grant, Harney, Hood River, Jefferson, Sherman, Umatilla, Union, Wheeler, and Wasco counties, as well as the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. At least two Oregonians have died this season, including contractor Jason Ensign, who was killed August 6 while operating a dozer on the Wrights Spring Fire in Klamath County; Governor Tina Kotek has ordered flags lowered in his honor.

More than 9,000 personnel are deployed across Oregon, but officials note that outside support is limited given how many states are dealing with major fires simultaneously. The Oregon Department of Forestry describes the extended, intense season as the state’s “new normal.”

Washington: 38 active fires statewide

Washington is managing 38 active wildfires covering roughly 570,000 acres. The largest include:

• Sinlahekin Fire (Okanogan County) — 152,921 acres, 37% contained
• Kaiser Canyon Fire (Okanogan County) — 138,218 acres, 74% contained
• Little Giant Fire (Chelan County) — 127,488 acres, only 5% contained after jumping Lake Chelan and advancing toward Manson
• Modrite Fire (Ferry County) — 57,788 acres, 76% contained

Earlier in the season, a cluster of fires near Spokane (Old Trails, Autumn Lane, and Market fires) caused heavy structure loss, and the Upriver Fire resulted in one confirmed fatality and at least 15 homes destroyed or damaged. A statewide emergency burn ban remains in effect through September 30.

Statewide Hotline and Assistance Web Form – Individuals in Oregon who are experiencing any wildfire-related impacts, such as loss of property, evacuated or sheltering and have ongoing needs, affected by wildfire smoke, or any other needs caused by the wildfires, can call the statewide hotline or fill out the Oregon Wildfire Assistance web form. 

• Statewide hotline: 1-833-669-0554 

• Oregon Wildfire Assistance web form: Connect Oregon  

Lines for Life – Provides emotional support and connects individuals with resources to navigate the emotional effects of the wildfires. 

• Call 800-923-4357 

Oregon Food Bank Map – A up-to-date map of open food banks where individuals can find free groceries, meals, and places to double their SNAP EBT benefits.