Almeda Fire (2020)
Jackson County (Talent & Phoenix), Oregon · Sep 8, 2020 – Sep 2020
Most destructive wildfire in southern Oregon historyAcres burned
3,200
Lives lost
3
Structures destroyed
2,600
Year
2020
What happened
The Almeda Fire tore through the towns of Talent and Phoenix during Oregon’s catastrophic Labor Day 2020 east-wind event, destroying roughly 2,600 structures despite its small footprint — the most destructive fire in southern Oregon history.
Cause
Arson + human-caused (investigated)
Location
Jackson County (Talent & Phoenix), Oregon
Key facts
- ▪Most destructive fire in southern Oregon history
- ▪~2,600 structures lost on only ~3,200 acres
- ▪Part of the Labor Day 2020 Oregon firestorm
- ▪Devastated working-class and mobile-home communities
Aftermath & what changed
The Almeda Fire exposed how wind-driven fire can level whole towns far from forest, displacing thousands and reshaping Oregon’s wildfire-preparedness and rebuilding policy.
Could your home survive a fire like the Almeda Fire?
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Related major fires
Almeda Fire FAQ
When was the Almeda Fire and where did it burn?
The Almeda Fire started Sep 8, 2020 in Jackson County (Talent & Phoenix), Oregon, and was contained Sep 2020.
How many acres did the Almeda Fire burn?
The Almeda Fire burned approximately 3,200 acres.
How many people died in the Almeda Fire?
Approximately 3 people died in the Almeda Fire.
What caused the Almeda Fire?
Arson + human-caused (investigated).
Figures are approximate and compiled from official agency reporting; totals for recent fires may still be revised. FireRisk.ai is an independent wildfire-risk service.