Austin Fire Oregon Update: Wildfire Grows to Nearly 11,700 Acres With 0% Containment as Crews Battle Blaze in Mount Hood National Forest

Firefighters continue to battle the rapidly expanding Austin Fire burning in Oregon’s Mount Hood National Forest, where the wildfire has grown to nearly 11,700 acres and remains 0% contained. The human-caused fire, burning southeast of Estacada across portions of Clackamas, Marion and Wasco counties, has prompted significant firefighting efforts, expanded forest closures and evacuation orders for nearby communities.

According to the U.S. Forest Service, the Austin Fire has now burned approximately 11,685 acres, with nearly 800 firefighters and support personnel assigned to the incident. Crews are working to strengthen containment lines using existing forest roads, heavy equipment and controlled burning operations to slow the fire’s advance. Despite these efforts, officials say dry fuels, steep terrain and persistent fire activity continue to present major challenges.

Fire managers reported progress in reinforcing indirect firelines along Forest Roads 46, 63, 4640 and 6310, while helicopters and ground crews continue suppressing spot fires near Cabin Creek and the Collawash River corridor. Weather conditions are expected to improve slightly, with cooler temperatures and rainfall forecast later this week that could assist containment efforts.

Several Level 3 “Go Now” evacuation orders remain in effect, including areas surrounding Bagby Hot Springs, Lake Harriet, portions of Oregon Highway 224, and numerous forest roads and campgrounds east of Carter Bridge. In addition, the U.S. Forest Service has expanded emergency closures throughout the Clackamas River Ranger District, restricting public access to affected roads, trails and recreational areas for the safety of firefighters and visitors.

Officials continue urging residents and visitors to avoid the fire area, comply with evacuation notices and monitor official updates as conditions remain highly dynamic. Smoke from the wildfire has affected air quality in parts of northwestern Oregon, and authorities recommend limiting prolonged outdoor activity in areas experiencing heavy smoke.

The cause of the Austin Fire has been identified as human-caused, though officials have not released additional details regarding how the fire started. The investigation remains ongoing as firefighters focus on protecting lives, infrastructure and natural resources while working toward the first measurable containment of one of Oregon’s most significant active wildfires.