"The fire’s rapid expansion to nearly 10,000 acres and the sustained high personnel commitment—peaking at 983—highlight its significant threat to the region’s natural resources and communities. The escalating containment efforts and cost estimates underscore the operational challenges faced by the USFS."
The Paradise wildfire, located 18 miles east of Milton‑Freewater in Wallowa County, Oregon, was discovered on July 16, 2026. The fire, caused by natural factors and managed by the USFS, grew rapidly from 1,664 acres on August 6 to a peak of 9,656 acres by September 6, 2026. Containment remained at 0% until August 27, when it first reached 13% and eventually climbed to 86% by mid‑September. Personnel fluctuated between 295 and 983, with the highest deployment of 983 on September 8. Estimated costs rose from $18.4 million on August 7 to $51.2 million by September 13, reflecting the extensive resources required to control the fire.
Official source description: 18 Miles E from Milton-Freewater, OR
Minimal; Smoldering
Good air quality. Outdoor activity is generally safe near this incident.
Nearest reporting station: Walla Walla. Source: AirNow.gov (EPA).
The fire remains in a minimal, smoldering phase with 86% containment. Residents should stay informed of local advisories, avoid outdoor activities that could spark fires, and be prepared for potential evacuation if conditions change.
IRWIN ID: {C8034780-D588-48DA-8BC9-C6CED34CD8DF}
Discovered: Jul 16, 2026
Cause: Natural
Managing Agency: USFS
Est. Cost to Date: $51,746,797
Coordinates: 45.9981, -117.9743
Other wildfires that have recently been contained or dropped from official tracking in OR.
The Paradise Fire has burned 9,656 acres as of September 23, 2026.
As of the latest update, the Paradise Fire is 86% contained.
The official cause has been listed as: Natural.
The Paradise Fire is burning in Wallowa, OR.
Yes, as of the latest official update, the Paradise Fire remains active.
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