With wildfires, smoke affecting Oregon highways, summer travelers are urged to plan ahead, prepare and stay informed
Barney Lerten
SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) — As wildfires continue to impact parts of Oregon, Governor Tina Kotek has declared a State of Emergency, effective July 16, 2025, through December 31, 2025. Travelers are urged to use extra caution on the roads and know the conditions in the areas they are traveling to.
Smoke can severely reduce visibility and create dangerous driving conditions. In some areas, wildfire activity has led to road closures or detours.
The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM), and Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) are working together to keep Oregonians safe—and they’re asking the public to do their part before hitting the road.
“If you’re planning a road trip this summer, make sure your car is ready,” OEM spokesperson, Erin Zysett, said. “Start your trip with a full tank of gas or electric charge, check your tires and air conditioner, and know your route. Conditions can change quickly during wildfire season.”
OEM urges travelers to carry a well-stocked emergency car kit in case they become stranded or delayed. Your kit should include:
Jumper cables
Flares or a reflective triangle
Flashlight and extra batteries
First aid kit
Blanket
Map or printed directions
Cell phone and car charger
Backup power supply
Hand-crank Weather Radio
N95 mask (to help filter smoky air)
Plastic sheeting and duct tape (to shelter in place if needed)
Wet wipes, garbage bags, and toilet paper for sanitation
Whistle to signal for help
Water and non-perishable snacks
Cash or traveler’s checks
Portable shovel
“Smoke affects visibility, as well as air quality, and can lead to sudden changes in driving conditions,” said Chris Varley, DEQ Spokesperson. “If visibility is poor or the air is hazardous, consider delaying your trip. Your safety comes first. If you must drive in smoky conditions, close all the windows and direct the car’s air system to recirculate, to help reduce the amount of smoke entering the car.”
Before You Go:
Check road closures and conditions at https://tripcheck.com
Monitor air quality at Oregon Smoke Information
View active wildfire maps and evacuation levels at https://wildfire.oregon.gov
Sign up for OR-Alert messages at https://oralert.gov
Enable Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) on your phone
Visit https://wildfire.oregon.gov to learn more about how to be ready for fire season.