Fire managers across Central Oregon are cautiously optimistic as three of the region's most significant wildfires make steady progress toward containment — but dangerous weather conditions are keeping crews in the field this weekend as thunderstorms and continued dry, windy conditions loom.

Where the Three Fires Stand

As of the most recent update from Central Oregon Fire Information, here is the latest on each fire:

  • Henry Fire — 29,850 acres, 97% contained. Located approximately 5 miles south of the Paulina Guard Station. No personnel currently assigned; fire managers do not anticipate additional spread.
  • Coyote Fire — 17,459 acres, 88% contained. Located about 5 miles south of Post, Oregon. A crew of 22 remains on scene. Managers have increased resources and are directing targeted mop-up and hazard tree removal along the perimeter.
  • Shingle Fire — 73,016 acres, 86% contained. Located approximately 14 miles southeast of Mitchell, Oregon, with 331 personnel assigned. A spot fire was identified on the north perimeter late Thursday; air and ground resources rapidly contained it south of Highway 26. Hazardous tree removal continues east of Forest Service Road 12.

Highway 26 Reopens

In welcome news for travelers and local businesses, the Highway 26 corridor between Prineville and Mitchell reopened following an extended closure due to the Shingle Fire. Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) and firefighters continue working in the area to strengthen control lines and remove hazard trees, so motorists should expect flaggers and some delays.

Evacuation levels remain in effect for portions of the southeastern region near the Shingle Fire. Residents in those areas should monitor the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office and Wheeler County Emergency Management for updates.

Weekend Weather: Red Flag Conditions

Fire weather forecasters are warning of red flag conditions through the weekend, with hot, dry, and windy weather expected ahead of forecasted thunderstorms. Dry lightning — storms that produce lightning with little or no rainfall — poses a serious ignition risk across already-parched Central Oregon landscapes.

Dry fuels across Jefferson County and surrounding areas remain "highly receptive to fire" until significant moisture returns to the region, according to fire managers. Stage 2 fire restrictions remain in effect across all Central Oregon public lands, prohibiting all campfires and open burning.

Smoke and Air Quality

Smoke from ongoing fires continues to impact the region, causing reduced visibility and degraded air quality on some days. Jefferson County residents — particularly those with respiratory conditions, the elderly, and children — are advised to limit prolonged outdoor exertion on days when smoke is heavy. Current air quality readings are available at fire.airnow.gov.

Fire information: 541-906-8923. For the latest updates, visit centraloregonfire.org.