Authorities in north-central Oregon have ordered mandatory Level 3 “Go Now!” evacuations for the entire city of Antelope and nearby rural areas as a fast-moving vegetation wildfire threatens lives and property. The Wasco County Sheriff’s Office issued the order on Thursday afternoon, July 16, 2026, after a lightning-sparked fire advanced toward the community of about 400 residents. Deputies conducted door-to-door notifications and used emergency alerts, also closing Highway 293 between mileposts 4 and 8 to non-emergency traffic. Wasco County Emergency Management opened a temporary shelter at Madras Middle School, as more than 50 fires from a dry lightning storm strained regional resources.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.