Growing wildfire in central Oregon chars 1,700 acres

La Pine, OR — A rapidly growing wildfire in central Oregon has scorched approximately 1,700 acres, prompting urgent evacuation orders and leaving thousands without power. The blaze, named the Darlene 3 Fire, erupted on Tuesday afternoon near La Pine in Deschutes County and quickly expanded due to gusty winds and dry conditions.

The fire was first reported around 12:45 p.m. on Tuesday, initially covering a modest 3 to 5 acres. However, within hours, it had ballooned to over 250 acres by the evening, and by nightfall, it had consumed 1,700 acres. The rapid spread of the fire necessitated immediate action from local and state authorities.

Firefighters from various agencies, including the Central Oregon Interagency Dispatch, were dispatched to combat the blaze. Despite their efforts, containment remained at 0% as of Tuesday night. The Oregon State Fire Marshal's Red Incident Management Team, along with two structural task forces from Linn and Marion counties, were mobilized to assist local resources. Four additional task forces are expected to arrive by Wednesday morning.

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office issued Level 3 "Go Now" evacuation orders for areas southeast of La Pine, particularly east of Highway 97 and north of Reed Road. Residents in these areas were urged to evacuate immediately to ensure their safety. Level 2 "Be Set" evacuation notices were also issued for nearby regions, advising residents to be prepared to leave at a moment's notice.

Temporary evacuation shelters have been established at La Pine High School, providing refuge for displaced residents. Additionally, the La Pine Rodeo Grounds have opened to accommodate evacuees with large livestock and pets. Recreational areas, including McKay Crossing Campground, Prairie Campground, Ogden Group Campground, and the Rosland OHV play area, have been closed to the public.

In response to the escalating situation, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act. This declaration allows the state fire marshal to mobilize additional resources and personnel to support local firefighting efforts. "This fire has quickly grown within the last few hours, pushed by gusty winds and high fire conditions. The Emergency Conflagration Act allows us to send the full power of the Oregon fire service to protect life and property," said Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple in a statement.

Governor Kotek's declaration underscores the severity of the fire and the potential threat it poses to life and property. The act enables the state to deploy a comprehensive response, leveraging all available resources to combat the blaze.

The wildfire has had a significant impact on the local community. Over 2,000 residents have been left without power due to a public safety shutoff implemented by Midstate Electric Cooperative. The utility company took this precautionary measure to prevent further fire outbreaks and ensure the safety of the affected areas.

Images and videos shared by the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office depict thick plumes of smoke billowing behind residential properties, highlighting the immediate danger faced by the community. The origins of the Darlene 3 Fire are currently under investigation, with authorities working to determine the cause of the blaze.

The name "Darlene 3" holds particular significance in the region's wildfire history. In 2021, the Darlene Fire ravaged nearly 700 acres and destroyed two homes, leaving a lasting impact on the community. The current fire's rapid growth and the urgent response it has necessitated serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by wildfires in the region.

As the fire continues to spread, authorities are urging residents to stay informed and follow evacuation orders promptly. "As we enter the hot and dry summer months, I am asking Oregonians to do everything they can to prevent wildfires," emphasized Fire Marshal Ruiz-Temple.

For the latest updates on the Darlene 3 Fire and evacuation notices, residents are encouraged to visit the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office website and follow their social media channels. The Central Oregon Fire Info blog also provides real-time information on the fire's status and firefighting efforts.

The Darlene 3 Fire serves as a sobering reminder of the destructive power of wildfires and the importance of preparedness and swift action in the face of such natural disasters.