A wildfire in Oregon, named the Rowena fire, has ravaged multiple homes and led to evacuation orders in the Columbia River Gorge region, signaling an early start to the fire season. The fire had spread to 3,500 acres and was uncontained, prompting authorities to evacuate hundreds of homes and close a section of an interstate highway. Governor Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act to mobilize resources for the firefighting efforts.

The blaze has already destroyed around 20 homes and poses a threat to nearly 2,200 structures. Oregon, facing a dry winter and rising temperatures, anticipates a challenging fire season. The US west braces for potential severe wildfires, with parts of Oregon experiencing record early-season heat.

Residents in the affected area were directed to evacuate, with some homes under immediate evacuation orders and others on standby. Emergency shelters were set up for both people and livestock. The blaze, fueled by strong winds, prompted the closure and subsequent reopening of Interstate 84, affecting communities like Hood River and The Dalles.

Amidst the firefighting efforts, photos showed flames encroaching upon the highway, emphasizing the urgency and scale of the situation. Firefighting resources, including water helicopters and planes dropping fire retardant, were deployed to combat the fire, which ignited on Wednesday. The incident serves as a stark reminder for Oregonians to stay prepared for potential wildfire threats.