Central Oregon wildfire escalates to 1,700 acres, prompting urgent evacuations

A rapidly spreading wildfire, known as the Darlene 3 Fire, has engulfed 1,700 acres in Central Oregon, leading to an emergency declaration and immediate evacuations. Ignited on Tuesday afternoon and driven by strong winds, the wildfire was reported to be 0% contained by early Wednesday, according to the Central Oregon Fire Management Service. The fire’s rapid expansion through a pine forest near La Pine, a town of approximately 2,500 residents in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, has put numerous homes at risk.

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office has issued evacuation orders for residents on the southeast side of La Pine. In response, shelters have been set up at a local high school and the La Pine Rodeo Grounds to accommodate displaced residents. Lt. Jayson Janes from the sheriff’s office stated that evacuation alerts were sent to about 1,100 homes and businesses in the affected area. The exact number of structures damaged or destroyed by the fire remains unclear as the situation develops.

In response to the escalating threat, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act, a measure that empowers the state fire marshal to mobilize additional firefighting resources across Oregon. This act facilitates the deployment of firefighters and equipment to assist local crews struggling to contain the blaze. Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple emphasized the critical nature of the situation, highlighting the challenging weather conditions, including gusty winds and high temperatures, that have fueled the fire’s spread.

“The Emergency Conflagration Act allows us to send the full power of the Oregon fire service to protect life and property,” Ruiz-Temple commented. She also urged Oregonians to take preventive measures against wildfires, especially during the hot, dry summer months.

The Darlene 3 Fire exemplifies the severe impact of climate conditions on wildfire behavior, particularly in forested regions like Central Oregon. The swift response under the Emergency Conflagration Act illustrates the importance of preparedness and rapid mobilization in mitigating the effects of such disasters on communities. As wildfires become increasingly frequent and intense, the coordination between state and local agencies is vital for effective emergency management and public safety.