The cluster of large fires burning in Central Oregon grew overnight but firefighters say they're gaining control over the blazes.
The fires are burning across 90,436 acres this morning, up from 76,169 last night. However, about 25 percent of the fire is contained. Only 10 percent were contained Wednesday, said Jeree Mills, spokeswoman for the Northwest Interagency Coordination Center. Mostly grassland and some timber are burning in and around the Warm Springs Reservation.
"There's an awful lot of fire on the reservation," she said.
She said about midnight authorities opened the Deschutes River. Fire crews may close the river periodically as helicopter crews dip buckets into the river for water. So far, three out-buildings have been destroyed. Mills said 190 homes remain threatened.
Mills said the winds are expected to die down today but the hot weather in store for the weekend is a concern for firefighters.
She said U.S. 26 may be closed periodically so travelers should check with the Oregon Department of Transportation before heading out.
McClatchy-Tribune News Service
