Cram Fire in Oregon nears 40 500 ha (100 000 acres), becomes largest active wildfire in U.S.
Cram Fire has scorched 39 540 ha (97 700 acres) since igniting on July 13, 2025, near Willowdale, Jefferson County, Oregon, and is currently the largest active wildfire in the U.S.
Image credit: Caught the Fire Bug
The Cram Fire has burned approximately 39 540 ha (97 700 acres) in central Oregon as of July 22, destroying 2 homes and 14 outbuildings. The fire started on July 13 near Willowdale, Jefferson County. It is currently 73% contained.
The blaze has affected rugged terrain about 24 km (15 miles) north of Madras. Updated assessments revealed that two previously identified residences were outbuildings. Additional losses include barns, sheds, workshops, and pump houses.
Nearly 950 personnel continue suppression efforts, although some firefighting resources are being demobilized due to reduced threat levels. Cooler temperatures and light rainfall over the weekend have supported containment. Thunderstorms and gusty winds are forecast through July 23.
Unified command is transitioning from Incident Management Team 10 to Northwest Team 3. Aerial reconnaissance on July 21 showed minimal heat across the perimeter, with bucket drops deemed unnecessary. Resources were redirected to nearby wildfires at Butte Creek and Greeley Heights.
Evacuation orders remain in effect across Jefferson, Wasco, and Crook counties, with some zones recently downgraded. Official maps are available via local sheriff departments. No fatalities have been reported.
The Cram Fire is the largest wildfire in the United States so far in 2025. It is nearing the 40 500 ha (100 000 acres) threshold used to define a megafire. Recent years have seen increasing frequency of such events due to prolonged drought and warming trends in the western U.S.
I’m a science journalist and researcher at The Watchers, contributing to the Epicenter edition, where I cover peer-reviewed scientific research and emerging discoveries across Earth and space sciences. With a background in astronomy and a passion for environmental science, I’ve worked in shark and coral conservation in Fiji, conducting reef and shark-behavior research, contributing to mangrove restoration, and earning PADI Open Water and Coral Reef Certifications. I bring a blend of scientific rigor and storytelling to illuminate the discoveries shaping our planet and beyond.
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