Gov. Tina Kotek has declared a drought emergency in Josephine and Wasco counties through Executive Order 26-11. This declaration marks the fifth drought emergency order issued in 2026, bringing the total number of Oregon counties under drought emergency status to 19 of 36.

Drought Conditions

Josephine and Wasco counties are experiencing moderate to extreme drought conditions. Seasonal climate and drought outlooks indicate that these drought conditions are likely to persist in the counties.

The emergency declaration unlocks specific tools for affected communities, including assistance for local water users and expedited review processes through the Oregon Water Resources Department.

As of June 9, all of Josephine County is in some form of drought. 46% of Josephine County is experiencing severe drought. Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index values for the water year thus far correspond with moderate to severe drought for much of Josephine County.

54% of Wasco County is in moderate to severe drought, with 23% of the county in severe drought. Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index values over the water year correspond with moderate drought conditions in the southern parts of Wasco County and are near normal or wetter than normal for the rest of the county.

The drought conditions are expected to significantly affect Oregon’s farms, ranches, recreation and tourism sectors, drinking water availability, fish and wildlife habitats and other natural resource-dependent activities.

Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.