Lightning Caused Anthony Fire Burns Thousands Of Acres In Oregon Forest

Firefighters are battling the Anthony Fire in the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest region as crews work to strengthen containment lines.

The lightning-caused wildfire has burned 2,326 acres since it started on July 8, 2026, about 34 miles north of Baker City, Oregon. The fire was 20% contained as of July 20, 2026, with 635 personnel assigned.

Aerial and ground footage shows smoke columns, active flames, aircraft operations, and firefighters working in challenging forest terrain.

Fire activity remained elevated overnight due to low humidity, while firefighters contained several spot fires within existing control lines.

Crews conducted firing operations on the north end and northeast side of the fire to remove vegetation ahead of the flame front. Hotshot crews continued building direct line, while dozers and vegetation-clearing equipment worked to strengthen control and contingency lines.

Unmanned aircraft systems supported operations across the fire area as crews patrolled the perimeter, responded to spot fires, and continued mop-up operations along the southern portion of the fire.