Wildfires Burn Across Oregon, Prompting Evacuations
Oregon is currently battling 17 active wildfires, including the Akawa Butte Fire near Sisters, Oregon, which has led to evacuation orders in the area. The 2026 wildfire season has been one of the worst in the state's history, exacerbated by low snowpack, dry lightning storms, high temperatures, and ongoing drought conditions. Governor Tina Kotek declared a statewide emergency on June 16, 2026, to address the escalating crisis. The fires have already cost the state $236.2 million, more than double the expenses from the previous year, according to Oregon Public Broadcasting. While some fires are being managed by private and contract fire services, larger incidents, such as the nearly 400,000-acre Rowe Creek Complex fire near John Day, have required federal intervention.
