Oregon officials issue wildfire warnings for residents and motorists
By Terry Murry on Thursday, July 23rd, 2026 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
PORTLAND – With wildfires and other extreme weather events occurring throughout Oregon, warnings were issued today from both the Oregon Office of Emergency Management (OEM).
OEM reminds customers that such events bring the potential for power outages. That can happen due to damaged equipment or to utilities having to adjust system settings that lead to public safety power shutoffs.
Officials advise preparing in advance:
- Be two weeks ready – Gather food, medical supplies, batteries, pet supplies, among other things, needed by family members during an outage or evacuation for up to two weeks. Learn more about what supplies to consider.
- For individuals with a medical condition that requires power, contact your electricity service provider in advance of an outage to register a Medical Certificate. This certification provides added benefits and helps the utility ensure they meet your needs in the event of an outage.
- Update your utility account on your service provider’s website to make sure they have your current contact information and can send you notifications. If uncertain which electric utility serves your area, visit https://www.oregon.gov/energy/energy-oregon/pages/find-your-utility.aspx.
- Keep cell phones fully charged in anticipation of an outage. Consider a car-charger for cell phones and other electronic devices.
- Plan for livestock water needs in the event well pumps lose power.
Have a plan to relocate to an alternative location for power needs, or if you can, consider a backup generator.
The Oregon Department of Transportation advises motorists to start a trip with a full tank of gas or a full electric charge. Check tires and air conditioner and learn your route ahead of time. Remember that driving conditions can change quickly during wildfire season.
Motorists are also advised to carry a car kit that includes:
- Jumper cables
- Flares or a reflective triangle
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Blanket
- Map or printed directions
- Cell phone and car charger
- Backup power supply
- Hand-crank weather radio (modern ones double as backup cell phone power)
- N95 respirator (to help filter smoky air)
- Plastic sheeting and duct tape (for sheltering in place if needed)
- Wet wipes, garbage bags, and toilet paper
- Whistle to signal for help and a portable shovel
- Water and non-perishable snacks
- Cash or traveler’s checks
The Oregon Health Authority also advises keeping the air inside the vehicle as clean as possible when air quality is poor. Keep windows closed. Turn the air settings to recirculate and run the fan and air conditioner if your car is so equipped.
Editor’s note: This post was edited to reflect the departments that issued the warnings.
