What is the name and location of the wildfire?
As of June 26, 2024, the Darlene 3 Fire has rapidly grown in size on the southeast outskirts of La Pine in Deschutes County, central Oregon (1)(2). The fire initially broke out near Darlene Way and is also being called the Darlene Way fire. It’s the third serious wildfire to threaten the area recent years.
The fire has prompted emergency evacuations. 2,000 people are currently without power.
Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire?
The wildfire is burning near La Pine, a rural city about 30 miles southwest of Bend, Oregon.
Surrounding areas in Deschutes County are also impacted, including regions east of Highway 97, south of Drafter Road, and south of Bassett Drive to Highway 31.
What is the current containment status of the wildfire?
As of Wednesday morning, June 26, the Darlene 3 Fire has grown to approximately 2,415 acres with 0% containment.
Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?
There are several evacuation orders and alerts in place as of June 26, 2024 (3):
Level 3 "GO NOW" Evacuation Orders:
- Areas east of Highway 97, south of Drafter Road, and south of Bassett Drive to Highway 31.
- Areas east of Highway 97 north of Reed Road, including regions off Rosland Road and Newberry Estates.
- East of the railroad tracks near Darlene Way and Ice Cave Road.
Level 2 "BE SET" Evacuation Alerts:
- The area east of Highway 97 south of Bassett Drive between the train tracks.
- The area east of Highway 97 to the train tracks from Reed Road south to Bassett Drive.
- East of Highway 97 and south of Rosland Pit.
Level 1 "BE READY" Evacuation Alerts:
- The area east of Highway 97 along Rosland Road, including Newberry Estates.
Evacuation centers have been established at La Pine High School, with a shelter for livestock and pets at the La Pine Rodeo Grounds.
Governor Tina Kotek has invoked the Oregon’s Emergency Conflagration Act. The law permits the state fire marshal to send resources to help save lives and property.
How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?
Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.
- Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
- Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
- Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
- Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
- Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.
