Akawa Butte Fire | July 21, 2026

(Sisters, OR) – Firefighters are working around the clock to strengthen containment lines ahead of critical fire weather. Aviation resources supported firefighters to secure lines and catch any new spots on the southern and southwestern edges of the fire. Crews and heavy equipment continued securing containment lines and mopping up along the eastern edge, while structural firefighters remained focused on protecting homes.

Today, firefighters will focus on strengthening lines along the northern edge of the fire and continuing line construction to the west. On the southern flank, crews will reinforce existing lines while continuing structure protection efforts. Firefighters will also build on the progress made by the night shift. Additional structural task forces have arrived to support structure triage, preparation, and protection and will assist wildland resources by providing critical water resources. Aircraft will continue providing aerial support as weather and visibility allow.

The public is asked to take caution and be aware while driving in the region due to increased fire activity and equipment, especially around the Sisters Rodeo grounds which have heavy equipment and crews entering and leaving at all hours.

Weather and Fire Behavior

Weather conditions are expected to remain favorable through the morning with light winds. By the afternoon, temperatures will increase, bringing the potential for gusty outflow winds and isolated thunderstorms over the fire area. A Red Flag Warning has been issued for Wednesday for abundant lightning, which could increase fire activity and the potential for new fire starts.

Evacuations

County Sheriff’s issue evacuation orders. The most current evacuation information is available at:

Deschutes County: https://www.deschutescounty.gov/AlertCenter.aspx

Jefferson County:

https://fr911orgis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=e1000ff48be84d6ba23431f303d2c247

Closures

BLM has issued closures for lands in and near the fires. See below for current information:

BLM Closures and Restrictions: https://www.blm.gov/programs/fire/regional-info/oregon-washington/fire-restrictions

Air Quality Information

Air quality updates: https://fire.airnow.gov/