La Pine, Oregon - June 26, 2024

A fast-moving wildfire, identified as the Darlene 3 Fire, continues to pose a significant threat to the community of La Pine in central Oregon. As of Tuesday night, fire officials reported that the blaze has engulfed approximately 2,400 acres and is currently 30% contained. Efforts to control the fire are being bolstered as a Type 3 Incident Management Team is set to assume command early Wednesday morning.

The fire originated about one mile southeast of La Pine, specifically on the east side of Darlene Way. Despite ongoing efforts, the cause of the fire remains unknown. In response to the escalating danger, the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office has issued mandatory evacuation orders for several zones in Southeast La Pine. An evacuation shelter has been established at La Pine High School to accommodate displaced residents.

Wednesday brings continued high fire danger across the region, with RED FLAG WARNINGS spanning from Western Oregon through Idaho and into California and Nevada. Authorities urge extreme caution, emphasizing that even small sparks could ignite new fires under current conditions.