The fast-moving Elk Lane Fire near Madras has grown to over 5,000 acres as of Tuesday afternoon.
The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office has issued evacuation orders for residents nearby, ranging from Level 1 “Be Ready” to Level 3 “Go Now!” alerts.
The evacuation alerts are in effect for areas west of Madras, including Pelton Park.
On Monday, Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act to help deploy additional resources to crews battling the Elk Lane Fire.
An evacuation shelter has been set up at Madras High School. Animals can be taken to the Jefferson County Fairgrounds.
The perimeter of the fire was listed at 0% containment Tuesday afternoon. Officials said ongoing hot, dry and windy conditions had been creating challenges for crews working to contain the fire.