Jefferson County is at the center of a multi-fire emergency this week, with evacuation levels active for three separate wildfires and Stage 2 fire restrictions blanketing all public lands in Central Oregon. As of Tuesday morning, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office had issued updated evacuation orders for the Akawa Butte Fire, the Bench Fire, and the Round Butte Fire.

Three Active Fires Near Jefferson County

Round Butte Fire

The Round Butte Fire ignited Saturday, August 1, approximately five miles west of Madras on the south side of Round Butte. Burning on the Crooked River National Grassland and private land, the fire grew quickly to 1,039 acres before aerial resources and overnight suppression efforts stabilized its spread. As of Monday evening, the fire was 7% contained. Level 1, 2, and 3 evacuations remain active in surrounding Jefferson County areas. Command transferred Monday morning to the Southwest 4 Complex Incident Management Team.

Bench Fire

The Bench Fire is also being managed by the Southwest 4 Complex Incident Management Team, which is now overseeing both fires simultaneously. Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office has active evacuation levels for areas near the Bench Fire as well. Residents should monitor the county’s evacuation map for the latest zone boundaries.

Akawa Butte Fire

The Akawa Butte Fire, burning north of Sisters, is one of the largest wildfire responses in the country by number of personnel assigned. At its peak, 1,668 firefighters were working the blaze. Crews have made progress using infrared cameras, cold trailing, and mop-up operations. However, Level 1–3 evacuations remain in effect in surrounding areas, and Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office has issued updated evacuation guidance affecting parts of the county tied to that fire’s ongoing spread.

Stage 2 Restrictions: What’s Banned

Central Oregon public lands moved to Stage 2 fire restrictions on July 22, and those restrictions remain in effect. Under Stage 2:

  • All campfires on public lands are prohibited — including in established campfire rings and fire pits
  • Backyard burning and agricultural burning are banned across multiple counties
  • Charcoal grills and wood-burning devices in campgrounds are prohibited
  • Restrictions apply to the Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, Crooked River National Grassland, and BLM lands

Propane or gas stoves and camp stoves with an on/off valve are generally permitted under Stage 2, but users should verify specific restrictions before heading out.

Air Quality and Health Concerns

Smoke from multiple wildfires is affecting communities throughout the region, including Madras and Warm Springs. Sensitive groups — including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions — should limit outdoor exposure during periods of heavy smoke. Air quality can change rapidly depending on wind direction and fire activity.

Residents can check current air quality conditions and daily smoke forecasts at fire.airnow.gov.

Stay Informed and Be Ready

  • Monitor evacuation zones at the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page or the county’s ArcGIS evacuation map
  • Sign up for emergency alerts through Jefferson County
  • Keep go-bags ready if you are in a Level 1 or Level 2 zone
  • Do not fly drones near active wildfires — drone interference has grounded aerial tankers this season
  • Call 9-1-1 to report new fire starts

Fire conditions in Central Oregon typically peak in the afternoon hours as temperatures rise and relative humidity drops. Residents in rural and wildland-urban interface areas are encouraged to remain vigilant throughout the week.