3 Oregon Counties at Risk of ‘Natural and Economic Disaster Conditions,’ Governor Warns in Drought Order

Drought emergency declared in Deschutes, Umatilla and Baker counties

Officials in Deschutes, Umatilla and Baker counties requested the declaration, which was granted by the Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek on March 26, 2026.

3 Oregon counties at risk of ‘natural and economic disaster conditions,’ governor warns in drought order

Gov. Tina Kotek declared a state of emergency due to drought conditions in three Oregon counties Tuesday to soften an impending “natural and economic disaster” caused by drier-than-normal conditions.

Oregon Governor Kotek declares drought emergencies in 3 counties

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek declared a drought emergency in three Oregon counties on Tuesday, marking the state’s first drought declaration of 2026.

Kotek declares drought emergency for Baker, Umatilla counties

SALEM – Gov. Tina Kotek has issued a drought declaration for Baker and Umatilla counties, directing state agencies to provide assistance to those region as dry conditions persist. The state-level declaration follows local drought emergency proclamations made by both counties earlier this month. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, much of Umatilla County is currently experiencing severe drought, while Baker County ranges from moderate to sever…