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

A wildfire in Oregon’s high desert, near the popular vacation destination of Bend, is growing rapidly. Officials on Wednesday urged the continued evacuations of hundreds of homes in the area best known for its microbreweries, hiking, river rafting and skiing on nearby Mount Bachelor. The Deschutes County Sherriff’s Office says evacuation alerts were sent to 1,100 homes and businesses. About 50-60 people sought refuge at a local high school serving as an evacuation center. Central Oregon Fire Information says the Darlene 3 wildfire is estimated to be nearly 4 square miles and 30% contained early Wednesday. Firefighters worked to establish control lines around the fire.