Jefferson County residents: the open burning season is over. Jefferson County Fire & EMS has officially closed all open burning countywide for the 2026 summer season, and conditions across Central Oregon suggest this year could be one for the record books — in the worst way.
Burn Restrictions in Effect
Jefferson County Fire & EMS enacted summer burning restrictions beginning May 4, limiting open burning to approved burn barrels with screens and valid permits, with a narrow window of sunrise to 10 a.m. daily. As of the agency's latest update, even those restrictions have tightened further — open burning is now closed entirely.
Residents with questions about permits or current restrictions can check jcfr1.org or call Jefferson County Fire & EMS directly.
A Season Forecasters Are Watching Closely
AccuWeather's 2026 wildfire forecast for Oregon is stark. Analysts point to a combination of record-low snowpack, an early drought declaration across Central Oregon, and emerging climate patterns that historically intensify summer fire weather. State climatologists have echoed the concern, warning that Jefferson County and surrounding areas are entering the season in a particularly vulnerable condition.
The numbers back it up. Oregon's snowpack came in well below average this winter, leaving soils and vegetation drier heading into summer. Forecasters predict above-normal fire activity statewide through at least August.
Jefferson County Already Had a Close Call
The season's first notable incident in the immediate area hit on June 1, when a lightning-sparked fire broke out approximately five miles southwest of Lake Billy Chinook — just a short drive from Culver and Metolius. The Jordan Incident, as it was named, started at roughly 4:53 p.m. and burned through grass, brush, and timber before Oregon Department of Forestry crews could get resources on it.
At its peak, a Level 2 "Be Set" evacuation notice was issued for nearby residents. By the following day, firefighters had the blaze roughly 50 percent contained at approximately 7.5 acres. Multiple interagency resources responded, including aerial support.
The fire was fully managed without structure loss, but it served as a sharp early reminder of how quickly conditions in the high desert can escalate.
New Tool for Tracking Fire and Smoke
Residents looking to stay informed this season have a new resource: a regional smoke and fire tracking map launched this week incorporates real-time air quality data from PurpleAir sensors, smoke forecasts, ODOT traffic camera feeds, and wildfire information from Watch Duty. The map is publicly accessible and will be updated continuously throughout the season.
What Residents Should Know
- Open burning is closed in Jefferson County. Violations can result in fines and liability for suppression costs.
- Defensible space around structures is critical — clear at least 100 feet of brush and dry vegetation from your home.
- Sign up for Jefferson County emergency alerts at jeffco.net to receive evacuation notices and fire updates directly to your phone.
- Download the Watch Duty app for real-time fire mapping.
With the season only beginning, fire officials are urging residents across Madras, Culver, Metolius, Crooked River Ranch, Ashwood, and the surrounding communities to take preparedness seriously now — not after the first evacuation notice hits their phones.