Wind-driven wildfire spreads near popular central Oregon vacation spot and prompts evacuations

UNDATED (AP)- A wildfire in Oregon’s high desert has grown rapidly. Officials on Wednesday urged the continued evacuations of hundreds of homes in the area near the popular vacation destination of Bend. The Deschutes County Sherriff’s Office says evacuation alerts were sent to 1,100 homes and businesses Tuesday (June 25, 2024). About 50-60 people have sought refuge at a local high school serving as an evacuation center. Central Oregon Fire Information said the Darlene 3 wildfire was estimated to be nearly 4 square miles and 30% contained. Firefighters were able to build a defense around the fire overnight.