Darlene 3 Fire grows overnight, continues to threaten homes near La Pine
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — The Darlene 3 Fire in Deschutes County continued growing overnight shooting past 2,000 acres in less than 24 hours as Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek invoked a state law allowing more resources to help in the fight against the inferno.
The fire, which started Tuesday, grew extremely quickly throughout the afternoon prompting Level 3 “Go Now” evacuations for nearby residences.
As of 8 a.m., Wednesday, the fire is sitting at 2,415 acres and 30% containment.
PHOTOS: Fire destroys $1 million home, half-acre of land
According to Central OR Fire Info on X, crews are focusing on maintaining lines and keeping the fire in place as winds continue to move through the area.
On Tuesday morning, Seaside Fire shared that they had deployed a team, along with crew from Cannon Beach, Gearheart, Knappa and Lewis & Clark Brush Engine 3121, to help battle the fire in Deschutes County.
Clackamas Fire District also announced that they’re sending three fire fighters and a Task Force Leader to help aid in battling the blaze.
Evacuations remain unchanged from Tuesday with Level 3 evacuations for the area east of Highway 97 and north of Reed Road, including areas off Rosland Road and Newberry Estates.
(Chelsea McCloud) (Chelsea McCloud) (FILE)
A temporary evacuation site is set up at La Pine High School for residents in need of support.
Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek also invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act for the fire on Tuesday, which allowed the state fire marshal to mobilize firefighters and equipment to assist local resources.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has also authorized the use of federal funds to defend against the fire on Tuesday evening.
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