Over 50 wildfires ignited by lightning strikes sweep across Central Oregon

Wheeler County, ORE. (KTVZ) --- Central Oregon experienced widespread lightning activity yesterday, July 15, 2026, with more than 2,000 strikes initiating more than 50 wildfires across areas managed by Central Oregon Fire Management Service and the Oregon Department of Forestry. The highest concentration of these fires is in Wheeler County, including the Crosswhite Fire, which spans 1,500-2,000 acres and has prompted evacuations.

These numerous fire starts occurred as storm cells passed through the region on July 15, 2026. Resources anticipate locating additional fires today as fuels dry out from the rain associated with these storms.

The Crosswhite Fire, located northwest of Twickenham, is approximately 1,500-2,000 acres. Structures are threatened and evacuations are in place for this incident. Southwest of Fossil and one mile east of the John Day Fossil Beds, the Cove Creek Fire is 1,000-2,000 acres. This fire threatens a number of outbuildings and residences, but no evacuations are currently in place. The Hopkins Fire, situated northwest of Condon, spans approximately 5,000 acres as of this morning. Some structures and infrastructure are threatened, though no evacuations have been ordered for this fire. Other notable fires in the area include the Twickingham Fire, the Camel Hump Fire, the Red Rock Fire and the Porcupine Fire. Each of these fires is under full suppression and is located in remote areas with no structures threatened. Interagency fire crews are actively working toward containment of these incidents, deploying a mix of engines, hand crews, dozers, overhead personnel and aircraft. The safety of firefighters and the public remains the highest priority during these events. For fire information, the public can call the info line at 541-316-7711.

Resources expect to find more fire starts today as fuels dry from the accompanying rain. For additional information and updates on wildfires, the public can visit centraloregonfire.org or follow fire information on X/Twitter @CentralORfire.