Firefighters have made dramatic gains on the Bench Fire burning southwest of Warm Springs, with the blaze now at an estimated 86 percent containment — a far cry from the zero-containment nightmare that triggered mass evacuations across the reservation three weeks ago. Warm Springs Police have officially lifted all evacuation levels tied to the Bench Fire, allowing residents to return home, though tribal officials are urging continued caution as crews work through remaining hotspots.

From Crisis to Recovery

At its peak, the Bench Fire scorched more than 67,000 acres in the Upper Seekseequa area, knocking out power and clean water for thousands of tribal members for nearly a week. Emergency shelters filled up across the region, and relief supplies poured in from communities throughout Central Oregon and beyond.

As of this week, the Warm Springs Wildfire Recovery Distribution Center continues operating out of the Old School Cafeteria, providing food, water, and household supplies to families still piecing things back together. Tribal officials have encouraged those in need to arrive early, and donations are still being accepted at designated locations across the community.

Long Road Ahead

While containment numbers are encouraging, tribal and county leaders are emphasizing that recovery will be measured in years, not weeks. Utility infrastructure, fencing, rangeland, and cultural sites sustained significant damage, and federal and state recovery assistance is being coordinated through tribal emergency management channels.

Residents with unmet recovery needs are asked to visit the Tribal Emergency Management office at 1116 Wasco Street.

Fire Restrictions Remain in Effect

Even with progress on the Bench Fire, conditions across Jefferson County remain critically dry. Stage 2 public use fire restrictions are still in effect on public lands throughout Central Oregon, meaning:

  • All campfires, including those in fire rings and pits, are prohibited on public lands
  • Charcoal and wood fires in developed campgrounds are banned unless in enclosed devices
  • Smoking is only permitted inside enclosed vehicles or buildings, or in cleared areas
  • The use of burn barrels has been prohibited in Jefferson County since August 4

Hot, dry, and breezy conditions are expected to persist through late August, keeping fire danger elevated. Residents are encouraged to check the Oregon Department of Forestry fire restrictions map at gisapps.odf.oregon.gov before any outdoor activities involving heat or flame.

Round Butte Fire Update

The Round Butte Fire near Culver — which sparked August 1 and prompted its own Level 3 evacuations along the south shore of Lake Billy Chinook — is now 90 percent contained at 1,163 acres. Determined to be human-caused, the fire now has a small crew of nine personnel managing final mop-up. All evacuation orders in the Round Butte area have also been lifted.

Anyone with information about the Round Butte Fire’s cause is encouraged to contact Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.