Oregon declares emergency drought for half its counties as wildfire season ramps up

Governor Tina Kotek has declared emergency drought status for five additional Oregon counties—Douglas, Gilliam, Harney, Lake and Malheur—bringing the total to nearly half of the state's 36 counties. The drought emergencies unlock state assistance for water users and speed up reviews by the Oregon Water Resources Department, amid record‑low snowpack and anticipated El Niño conditions.

The Oregon Department of Emergency Management is urging residents, especially those in high‑risk wildfire areas, to prepare evacuation plans. The agency advises households to assemble go‑bags with water, food, medication, first‑aid supplies, and important documents, to know multiple evacuation routes, sign up for emergency alerts, and consider special needs for pets, livestock, and individuals with disabilities.