Firefighters in Oregon are bracing for windy and dry conditions as they battle dozens of wildfires across the state. The Akawa Butte Fire, which is burning near Sisters, a town about 22 miles northwest of Bend, has scorched 42 square miles and destroyed two homes.

Containment Efforts

Crews have been able to build some containment lines around the Akawa Butte Fire, but strong winds and low humidity are expected to arrive later Friday and Saturday, which could lead to increased fire activity. The National Weather Service has issued a red-flag warning in central Oregon through Saturday, indicating an extreme wildfire risk.

The most critical period for Sisters, a town of 3,800 people, will be the next 24 to 48 hours, according to Sisters Mayor Jennifer Letz. About half of the town’s population has been told to be ready to leave if needed. There are more than 1,000 firefighters battling the blaze, and more are expected to join them to help strengthen and expand containment lines.

Statewide Efforts

Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek said every available firefighter and firefighting resource is being used in the field. The state is also battling other significant wildfires, including the Rowe Creek Complex, which has destroyed 300 square miles since being sparked by lightning on July 15.

Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.