High winds and soaring temperatures have led to the rapid spread of the Cram Fire in central Oregon, with the blaze expanding to over 40,000 acres and resulting in evacuations across ranches and communities in two counties, authorities reported on Tuesday.
The fire, first detected on Sunday, has increased nearly tenfold in size within a single day, consuming areas of grass, brush, and juniper near U.S. Route 97, close to the sparsely populated Willowdale in Jefferson County.
Firefighters were engaged in efforts overnight into Wednesday to safeguard structures and prevent the fire’s further expansion, according to an update from the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s agency. As of now, the Cram Fire remains uncontained.
Initially covering 4,500 acres by Monday afternoon, the fire prompted urgent evacuations in Jefferson County and neighboring Wasco County. State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple emphasized the challenging weather conditions, noting they significantly complicate firefighting efforts.
This wildfire serves as a reminder of the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires associated with climate change, yet the dedication of firefighters and community support illustrates resilience in difficult situations. Efforts to mitigate the fire and protect affected communities are ongoing, highlighting both the risks posed by natural disasters and the human spirit’s tenacity in the face of adversity.