FILE - The Grasshopper Fire burns in the mountains west of Friend, Ore., on Aug 3, 2026.
Eli Imadali / OPB
By acreage burned, Oregon is experiencing its most severe wildfire season in recorded history, with its largest single fire ever burning in the southeastern corner of the state. The blazes continue to drive people from their homes, cancel events and spew unhealthy smoke across the state.
The Big Grass Fire, at 555,000 acres, surpasses two other huge wildfires in recent history that also burned close to a half million acres or more: the Long Draw Fire in 2012 and the Biscuit Fire in 2002. According to wildfire officials, the Big Grass Fire is 35% contained and threatening 737 structures along the Oregon-Idaho border.
The Grasshopper Fire continues to burn on the east side of Mount Hood, measuring more than 77,000 acres according to a Tuesday night announcement from emergency officials. With more than 1,800 people involved in response efforts, the Grasshopper Fire is roughly 20% contained. The Northwest Interagency Coordination Center reported that one “minor structure” had been destroyed, with 200 more buildings threatened.
Officials have announced plans to cancel the Wasco County Fair due to “active fire danger and severe smoke.” The fair was set to start Thursday, Aug. 13.
“Public safety is our top priority,” county fair officials wrote on their Facebook page. “While we share in your disappointment, the Board will meet shortly to explore possibilities for hosting specific fair events at a later date.”
Level 3 “Go Now!” and Level 2 “Get Set” evacuation orders remain in place for parts of Wasco and Hood River counties. Level 1 orders are in effect for parts of those two counties, as well as parts of Clackamas County.
This story may be updated.
