August 19, 2025 3:10 p.m. 

On Tuesday, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek declared a drought in Coos and Wheeler counties through Executive Order 25-19 and directed state agencies to coordinate and prioritize assistance to the region.

According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, Coos County has been experiencing moderate drought since June 17th. Wheeler County has been experiencing moderate drought since June 24th and severe drought since July 15th.

Governor Kotek has now declared drought emergencies in seven counties this year. Earlier declarations were for Douglas, Morrow, Union, Baker and Lincoln counties.