April 24, 2026 6:30 a.m. 

Governor Tina Kotek has declared a drought emergency in Crook, Grant, Jackson, Jefferson, Morrow and Wallowa counties through Executive Order 26-07 and directed state agencies to coordinate and prioritize assistance to the region.

A release from the Governor’s office said this marks the second drought declaration in 2026. In total, nine of Oregon’s thirty-six counties are now under drought emergency status. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Oregon’s 2025-26 winter tied with 1934 as the warmest on record. The unusually warm temperatures contributed to a record-low snowpack with likely impacts on natural resources, water supply, and wildfire risk across the state.

Governor Kotek said, “Communities across the state are being confronted with unprecedented drought conditions”. Governor Kotek said, “My office and relevant state agencies are at the ready to assist affected communities address drought impacts and continue efforts to secure a stronger, more climate-resilient Oregon. The abnormally dry conditions we’re experiencing should serve as a stark reminder that wildfire season is around the corner and Oregonians need to be ready”.

Forecasted snowpack, temperature, precipitation, and water-supply conditions suggest that drought conditions in the counties are unlikely to improve in the near-term.

The release said drought conditions are expected to significantly affect Oregon’s farms, ranches, recreation and tourism sectors, drinking water availability, fish and wildlife habitats, and other natural resource-dependent activities. Extreme dryness will likely shorten the growing season, decrease water supplies and increase wildfire risk.